Leighton Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Durepo Brook Noyes Mill
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Leighton Lake in Caswell, Maine is a private earth dam built in 1945 primarily for flood risk reduction purposes.
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Summary
With a structural height of 12 feet and a length of 250 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 48 acre-feet. The lake covers an area of 6 acres and is situated on Leighton Brook.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and not having a current condition assessment rating, Leighton Lake is regulated and inspected by the Maine Emergency Management Agency. The dam is owned privately and falls under state jurisdiction, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) or inundation maps prepared at this time, it is subject to regular inspections with a frequency of 12 months.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Leighton Lake an intriguing subject, with its historical significance as a flood risk reduction structure and potential for recreational activities. The dam's location in Aroostook County, Maine, under the oversight of state regulators, adds to its appeal for those interested in water management and environmental conservation efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
Leighton Brook |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
65 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Aroostook River At Washburn
|
1520cfs |
Williams Brook At Phair
|
3cfs |
Aroostook River Near Masardis
|
825cfs |
Fish River Near Fort Kent
|
695cfs |
St. John River Below Fish R
|
2780cfs |
Meduxnekeag River Near Houlton
|
222cfs |
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.
Leighton Lake