Parson's Mill Reservoir Report
Nearby: Barker Mill Upper Barker Mill Lower
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Parson's Mill, located in Auburn, Maine, along the Taylor Brook, is a historic hydroelectric dam that was completed in 1860.
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Summary
This private dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, creating a fish and wildlife pond, and generating hydroelectric power. With a dam height of 10 feet and a concrete structure, Parson's Mill has a normal storage capacity of 70 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 120 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 12 acres.
Managed by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Parson's Mill is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam has a low hazard potential and is not currently rated for its condition. Despite its age, Parson's Mill remains a key asset in managing water resources in the region, providing both environmental benefits and renewable energy through its hydroelectric operations. As a significant piece of infrastructure in Androscoggin County, this dam plays a vital role in the local ecosystem and water management efforts.
Jared F. Golden (D) represents the New England District where Parson's Mill is located, highlighting the importance of this structure in the region's water resource and climate management strategies. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, dams like Parson's Mill play a crucial role in mitigating flood risks, supporting wildlife habitats, and providing sustainable energy solutions. With its long history and ongoing regulatory oversight, Parson's Mill stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management, renewable energy production, and environmental stewardship in Maine.
Year Completed |
1860 |
Dam Length |
65 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
Taylor Brook |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
15 |
Nid Storage |
120 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Androscoggin River Near Auburn
|
2700cfs |
Nezinscot River At Turner Center
|
43cfs |
Little Androscoggin River Near South Paris
|
57cfs |
Presumpscot River At Westbrook
|
-999999cfs |
Cobbosseecontee Stream At Gardiner
|
69cfs |
Saco River At Cornish
|
1020cfs |
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.
Parson's Mill
Second Street 10, Auburn