Thurston Pond Reservoir Report
Nearby: Brewer Lake Swetts Pond
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Thurston Pond, located in Hancock, Maine, is a privately owned dam with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Built in 1900, this dam stands at 9 feet high and has a hydraulic height of 7 feet, with a length of 60 feet. The pond has a storage capacity of 643 acre-feet, with normal storage at 476 acre-feet and a surface area of 136 acres. While the dam is classified as low hazard potential, its condition assessment is currently not rated, and the last inspection date was in 2004.
The State of Maine regulates Thurston Pond, with the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) overseeing permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite its age, the dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years, and there are no associated structures or locks in place. While the dam meets guidelines for emergency action plans and inundation maps, these documents have not been updated recently. With its low hazard potential and state regulation, Thurston Pond serves as a vital flood risk reduction structure in the region, providing essential protection for the surrounding area.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Thurston Pond to be a fascinating example of early dam construction and flood risk management. Its location in a picturesque setting in Hancock, Maine, combined with its historical significance and ongoing state regulation, make it a noteworthy site for studying the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and environmental stewardship. As efforts to address climate change and mitigate flood risks continue to be at the forefront of global concerns, Thurston Pond stands as a testament to the importance of resilient and well-maintained water infrastructure in safeguarding communities against natural disasters.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
60 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
Thurston Pond |
Primary Dam Type |
Other |
Surface Area |
136 |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Nid Storage |
643 |
Structural Height |
9 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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 |
|---|---|---|
Balsam Cove Campground
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Star Rock Campsite
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Cold River Campground
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Thurston Pond
Snowmobile Trail 7c Holden Holden