Upper Somes Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Upper Somes, also known as Somes Pond Outlet, is a locally owned dam located in Hancock, Maine.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1900, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, fire protection, stock maintenance, recreation, and water supply. With a storage capacity of 344 acre-feet and a surface area of 104 acres, Upper Somes plays a crucial role in the local community's water resource management.

Managed by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Upper Somes is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, its condition assessment has not been rated as of the last assessment in 2010. The dam's primary purpose for hydroelectric power generation underscores its significance in the region's energy and water sustainability efforts, making it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and learn from.

With its historical significance dating back over a century, Upper Somes continues to contribute to the local landscape and ecosystem along Somes Brook. Whether for its hydroelectric capabilities or its recreational and water supply functions, this dam serves as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in harnessing water resources for the benefit of the community.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

183

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Somes Brook

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

104

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

344

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.