Howard Mill Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Tyler Flowage Upper Goodall Heath Dam
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Howard Mill Dam, located in Washington, Maine, is a federally-owned structure managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Engineering.
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Summary
Completed in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and spans 180 feet in length along the Magurrewock Stream. With a primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond, the dam has a storage capacity of 253 acre-feet and serves as a vital resource for the surrounding ecosystem.
Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Howard Mill Dam poses a very high risk, according to the data. The dam features controlled spillways with a width of 28 feet and other controlled outlet gates. The structure has been inspected regularly, with the last assessment conducted in June 2014, and is regulated by the Fish and Wildlife Service. While the risk assessment indicates potential vulnerabilities, the dam continues to play a critical role in managing water resources in the region.
With its rich history and essential function in supporting wildlife habitat, Howard Mill Dam serves as a key component in the conservation efforts of the Fish and Wildlife Service. As climate change impacts continue to affect water resources, the maintenance and management of this dam are crucial for ensuring the sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the complexities of structures like Howard Mill Dam sheds light on the intricate balance between human development and environmental preservation.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
180 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
Magurrewock Stream |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
49 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
1.9 |
Nid Storage |
253 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
St. Croix River At Baring
|
1100cfs |
Dennys River At Dennysville
|
1010cfs |
Grand Lake Stream At Grand Lake Stream
|
113cfs |
Old Stream Near Wesley
|
27cfs |
Libby Brook Near Northfield
|
9cfs |
St. Croix River At Vanceboro
|
369cfs |
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.
Howard Mill Dam