Libby Brook Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Libby Brook, located in Aroostook, Maine, is a crucial water resource managed by the local government with oversight from the Maine Emergency Management Agency.


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Summary

Built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam stands at a height of 53 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction. With a normal storage capacity of 350 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 405 acre-feet, Libby Brook covers a surface area of 7 acres and plays a significant role in controlling debris and reducing flood risks in the area.

Despite its fair condition assessment in 2019, Libby Brook poses a high hazard potential due to its structural design and location. The dam's inspection frequency of 6 years ensures its ongoing safety and functionality, with emergency action plans in place to address any potential risks. Its spillway width of 4 feet and lack of drainage area indicate the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring to prevent any potential breaches that could lead to downstream flooding.

This dam, under the jurisdiction of MEMA and with the support of the Natural Resources Conservation Service, serves as a vital infrastructure for flood protection in the region. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering behind Libby Brook, as it stands as a testament to the efforts in managing and preserving water resources for the community's safety and well-being.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

390

Dam Height

53

River Or Stream

Libby

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

51

Nid Storage

405

Structural Height

53

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

53
       
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.