Eskutassis Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Eskutassis Pond, located in Penobscot, Maine, is a private water resource that dates back to 1860 when it was completed as a Rockfill dam.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 10 feet, with a hydraulic height of 4 feet, and a structural height of 10 feet, creating a storage capacity of 4,702 acre-feet. With a surface area of 895 acres and a drainage area of 10.5 square miles, Eskutassis Pond is fed by the Eskutassis Stream and serves various purposes with a low hazard potential.

Despite its historical significance and important role in the local ecosystem, Eskutassis Pond is currently in poor condition and in need of assessment and maintenance. The dam has a low hazard potential but its poor condition raises concerns for its long-term sustainability. The state regulatory agency MEMA oversees the permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes, ensuring that the dam meets safety standards and poses minimal risk to the surrounding area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Eskutassis Pond offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of historical infrastructure and environmental stewardship. With its rich history, diverse purposes, and regulatory oversight, the pond serves as a valuable case study in the management and maintenance of water resources in Maine. By understanding the challenges facing Eskutassis Pond, enthusiasts can gain insights into the complexities of balancing human needs with environmental sustainability in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1860

Dam Length

170

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

Eskutassis Stream

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

895

Hydraulic Height

4

Drainage Area

10.5

Nid Storage

4702

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.