Hancock Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Hancock Pond in Somerset, Maine is a concrete gravity dam completed in 1923 for water supply purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 7 feet and a storage capacity of 900 acre-feet, the dam serves as a vital source of water for the surrounding area. Situated on Hancock Stream, the dam has a surface area of 320 acres and a spillway width of 11 feet.

Owned by a public utility and regulated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency, Hancock Pond Dam is considered to have low hazard potential. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, and it undergoes inspections every 12 months. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and inundation maps preparation are all currently listed as unknown, highlighting potential areas for improvement in emergency preparedness.

Overall, Hancock Pond Dam plays a crucial role in water supply and recreation for the local community. As climate change impacts water resources, it is essential to ensure the dam's safety and preparedness for emergencies to safeguard both the environment and the residents who rely on its services. With proper monitoring and maintenance, Hancock Pond Dam can continue to serve as a valuable asset in water management and conservation efforts.

Year Completed

1923

Dam Length

165

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

Hancock Stream

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

320

Hydraulic Height

6

Nid Storage

900

Structural Height

7

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
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.