Long Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Long Pond in Hancock, Maine, is a significant water resource managed by the local government for multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation, fire protection, stock and small fish pond, fish and wildlife habitat, flood risk reduction, and water supply.


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Summary

The dam, constructed in 1930, is primarily made of stone and stands at a height of 8 feet with a hydraulic height of 6 feet. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 3,480 acre-feet and a surface area of 897 acres, making it an essential asset for water management in the region.

Despite its importance, Long Pond's dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential and is rated as being in poor condition based on a 2017 assessment. The dam has a spillway width of 8 feet and is regulated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA). Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in May 2017, and emergency action plans are in place to address any potential risks associated with the dam. The site is a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its role in supporting various environmental and human needs while also facing challenges in maintaining its structural integrity.

For those interested in water resource management and climate resilience, Long Pond offers a case study in balancing the benefits of a multi-purpose reservoir with the challenges of maintaining aging infrastructure. With its historical significance dating back to the early 20th century, the dam at Long Pond represents a unique blend of hydroelectric power generation, water supply, and environmental conservation efforts. Monitoring and addressing the structural integrity and hazard potential of the dam remain crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of this vital water resource in Maine's landscape.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

85

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

Long Pond Brook

Primary Dam Type

Stone

Surface Area

897

Hydraulic Height

6

Nid Storage

3480

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

8
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.