Lower West Bay Pond Reservoir Report
Nearby: Upper West Bay Pond Jones Pond
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Lower West Bay Pond in Gouldsboro, Maine, is a picturesque recreational spot surrounded by the tranquil waters of Lower West Bay Stream.
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Summary
The dam holding back the pond was completed in 1920 and stands at a height of 12 feet, providing a storage capacity of 537 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 59 acres. However, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with a high hazard potential, highlighting the need for regular inspections and potential maintenance or repairs to ensure its safety and longevity.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Lower West Bay Pond is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy water-based activities in a beautiful natural setting. With a spillway width of 49 feet, the dam also serves as a crucial flood control measure for the surrounding area, further emphasizing the importance of its maintenance and upkeep. Despite its age and condition, the pond continues to attract visitors seeking recreational opportunities and a connection to nature.
As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure, the ongoing monitoring and management of Lower West Bay Pond will be essential to adapt to changing conditions and ensure the safety of the surrounding community. With a designated inspection frequency of 6 years and a last assessment date in 2016, stakeholders must remain vigilant in assessing and addressing any potential risks or vulnerabilities associated with the dam. By prioritizing safety and sustainability, Lower West Bay Pond can continue to provide a valuable recreational and environmental resource for years to come.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
70 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
Lower West Bay Stream |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
59 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
8 |
Nid Storage |
537 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Lower West Bay Pond