Nicatous Stream Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Nicatous Stream, located in Hancock, Maine, is a vital water resource that serves primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

The stream is regulated by the state and has a timber crib dam that was completed in 1974. The dam stands at 8 feet in height, with a hydraulic height of 2 feet and a length of 75 feet, creating a storage capacity of 371,503 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 230,703 acre-feet. The stream covers a surface area of 5,165 acres and has a drainage area of 71 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential, Nicatous Stream and its dam play a crucial role in managing water resources and providing recreational opportunities in the area. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and the last inspection date was recorded as far back as December 31, 1899. However, the state enforces regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement of regulations to ensure the safety and sustainability of the dam and the stream. With its picturesque location and significant storage capacity, Nicatous Stream remains an important water feature for enthusiasts of water resources and climate.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

75

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

Nicatous Stream

Primary Dam Type

Timber Crib

Surface Area

5165

Hydraulic Height

2

Drainage Area

71

Nid Storage

371503

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.