Putt Brook Reservoir Report
Nearby: Locke Mills Twitchell Pond
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Putt Brook, located in Oxford, Maine, is a concrete dam built in 1940 primarily for fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 11 feet with a hydraulic height of 6 feet, providing a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet and a normal storage of 51 acre-feet. With a surface area of 1 acre, Putt Brook serves as a vital source of water for the Alder River, South Branch.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Putt Brook is classified as having low hazard potential with a condition assessment that is currently not rated. Despite being inspected every 12 months, there is no available data on the last inspection date or the emergency action plan (EAP) status. The dam's purpose also extends to recreation, making it a valuable resource for outdoor enthusiasts in the area. Additionally, the dam's location in a picturesque natural setting further adds to its appeal for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Although Putt Brook does not have any associated structures, it plays a crucial role in providing essential water resources to the surrounding community. With its historical significance dating back to the 1940s, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of water management and conservation efforts in ensuring sustainable usage for future generations. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resources, the preservation and maintenance of dams like Putt Brook will be essential in safeguarding our ecosystems and maintaining a reliable water supply for the local population.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
30 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
Alder River, South Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
6 |
Nid Storage |
90 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Androscoggin River Near South Paris
|
57cfs |
Androscoggin River At Rumford
|
2130cfs |
Ellis River At South Andover
|
74cfs |
Wild River At Gilead
|
48cfs |
Swift River Near Roxbury
|
89cfs |
Androscoggin River Near Gorham
|
1950cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Bethel Outdoor Adventures and Campground
|
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Crocker Pond Campground
|
||
Crocker Pond
|
Putt Brook