French Stream Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
French Stream is a privately owned dam located in Penobscot, Maine, with a primary purpose of recreation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1850, this Rockfill dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," French Stream remains a picturesque spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore.
Managed by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), French Stream is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations. While the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks certain structural details like spillway type and maximum discharge capacity, it provides a serene environment for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The dam's location within the New England District adds to its allure for nature lovers and conservationists.
Although lacking certain details like inspection dates and emergency preparedness information, French Stream's status as a recreational dam in a beautiful natural setting makes it an appealing destination for those interested in water resources and climate conservation. With its historical significance, low risk potential, and state-regulated operations, French Stream invites enthusiasts to appreciate the intersection of human engineering and natural landscapes in Maine's picturesque Penobscot County.
Year Completed |
1850 |
Dam Length |
275 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
French Stream |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
140 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
French Stream