Bell Mill Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Bell Mill, a historic stone dam located in Washington, Maine, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.


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Summary

Built in 1900 along Crane Mill Brook, this dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a storage capacity of 92 acre-feet. With a surface area of 28 acres, Bell Mill provides essential water resources for the surrounding area while also supporting fish and wildlife habitats.

Managed by a private owner, Bell Mill is regulated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment has not been rated since 2011. With a last inspection date in 1899, efforts to update emergency action plans and risk assessments for Bell Mill are ongoing to ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital water resource in Maine.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore Bell Mill's rich history and significance in the region, it remains a focal point for conservation efforts and sustainable water management practices. With its picturesque location and diverse ecosystem support, Bell Mill stands as a reminder of the importance of preserving our water resources for future generations to come.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

40

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

Crane Mill Brook

Primary Dam Type

Stone

Surface Area

28

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

92

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.