Whitney Irrigation Pond Reservoir Report
Nearby: Spragues Mill Upper
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Whitney Irrigation Pond, located in Penobscot, Maine, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1950 primarily for irrigation purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a dam height of 16 feet and a length of 460 feet, the pond has a storage capacity of 125 acre-feet and covers an area of 18.5 acres. Despite being regulated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency and subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, the condition assessment of the dam is rated as poor, indicating a potential risk for failure.
The low hazard potential of Whitney Irrigation Pond belies its poor condition assessment, highlighting the need for timely maintenance and risk management measures. The dam, with a hydraulic height of 0 feet and a structural height of 16 feet, poses a potential threat in case of a failure. With a designated emergency action plan (EAP) yet to be prepared or updated, there is room for improvement in ensuring the safety and security of the surrounding area in the event of a dam breach. Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts should pay close attention to the management of Whitney Irrigation Pond to prevent any potential disasters and safeguard the local ecosystem.
As water resources and climate change continue to be pressing issues, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Whitney Irrigation Pond are crucial for sustainable water management. With a history dating back to the mid-20th century, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness in ensuring the safety and integrity of water infrastructures. It is imperative for stakeholders to prioritize the rehabilitation and maintenance of Whitney Irrigation Pond to mitigate risks and protect the surrounding environment from any potential harm.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
460 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
Whitney Irrigation Pond |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18.5 |
Nid Storage |
125 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
16 |
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.
Whitney Irrigation Pond