Rocky Bottom Reservoir Report
Nearby: Plymouth Carlton Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Rocky Bottom is a private hydroelectric dam located in Dixmont, Maine, along Wellman's Pond.
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Summary
Built in 1965, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 225 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock maintenance, and wildlife preservation.
Managed by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Rocky Bottom is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with safety standards. Despite being classified as having low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated. The surrounding area, known for its scenic beauty and vital water resources, benefits from the dam's contribution to hydroelectric power generation and environmental conservation efforts.
With Jared F. Golden representing the New England District, Rocky Bottom represents a unique intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and energy production. As enthusiasts and stakeholders in water resource and climate matters, the presence of Rocky Bottom highlights the importance of sustainable infrastructure development and regulatory oversight in safeguarding both natural ecosystems and human communities in Maine.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
225 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Wellman's Pond |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Rocky Bottom