Biscoe Falls Reservoir Report
Nearby: North Pond Billings
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Biscoe Falls is a private hydroelectric dam located on the Little Androscoggin River in South Paris, Maine.
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Summary
Completed in 1986, this masonry dam stands at 15 feet high and spans 115 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 126 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation and is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, Biscoe Falls provides a reliable source of renewable energy while also minimizing potential environmental impacts. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 65 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 530 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, indicating a need for further inspection and maintenance.
While not state-regulated, Biscoe Falls plays a crucial role in the local water resource management and climate resilience efforts. As an integral component of the region's energy infrastructure, the dam highlights the importance of balancing renewable energy production with environmental stewardship in a changing climate landscape.
Year Completed |
1986 |
Dam Length |
115 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
Little Androscoggin River |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
21 |
Drainage Area |
75.8 |
Nid Storage |
126 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Biscoe Falls