East Branch Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lower Great Brook Great Brook
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
East Branch is a public utility located in Damariscotta, Maine, with a primary purpose of providing fire protection and serving as a small fish pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1978, this earth dam stands at 20 feet in height and spans 250 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 16 acre-feet, it covers a surface area of 2 acres and is regulated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition as of the last inspection in May 2020.
The East Branch dam plays a crucial role in supporting local wildlife and ensuring fire protection for the surrounding area. Managed by a public utility, it is subject to regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement by state regulatory agencies. With a spillway width of 4 feet and a hydraulic height of 18 feet, the dam serves as a vital resource in the region. Located in Lincoln County, Maine, this structure not only serves practical purposes but also adds to the scenic beauty of the landscape.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, East Branch offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure development and environmental conservation. With its earth dam construction and stone core types, the dam reflects a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics. As efforts to enhance emergency preparedness continue, the East Branch dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and regulating water resources for the benefit of both humans and wildlife in the region.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
0 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
16 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
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.
East Branch