Sawtelle Deadwater Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Sawtelle Deadwater, located in Penobscot, Maine, is a state-regulated earth dam built in 1880 for hydroelectric purposes.


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Summary

With a dam height of 8 feet and a hydraulic height of 4 feet, this structure spans 66 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 1090 acre-feet. The reservoir also serves recreational, fish and wildlife pond, and other purposes, covering a surface area of 200 acres.

Owned and regulated by the state agency MEMA, Sawtelle Deadwater has a low hazard potential and is currently not rated in terms of condition assessment. Despite its age, this dam undergoes regular inspections every 12 months to ensure its safety and functionality. With a spillway width of 83 feet, the dam is designed to manage any excess water flow effectively, mitigating potential risks and ensuring the safety of the surrounding area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sawtelle Deadwater represents a historic piece of infrastructure that continues to play a significant role in the local ecosystem. As a key player in Maine's hydroelectric network, this dam stands as a testament to the state's commitment to sustainable energy practices and the preservation of natural resources. With its multi-purpose design and state-of-the-art regulatory framework, Sawtelle Deadwater exemplifies the harmonious coexistence of human development and environmental conservation in the modern era.

Year Completed

1880

Dam Length

66

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

Sawtelle Brook

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

200

Hydraulic Height

4

Nid Storage

1090

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

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.