Whitney Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Whitney, located in Aroostook, Maine, is a vital structure designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along Whitney Brook.


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Summary

Completed in 1967, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans 2600 feet, with a storage capacity of 2898 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by MEMA and is subject to state inspection, permitting, and enforcement, ensuring its functionality and safety in mitigating flood risks in the region.

Managed by the local government, Whitney serves as a critical infrastructure in the area, safeguarding the community from potential flood hazards. Despite being classified as having low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated. However, with an inspection frequency of 12 months, Whitney's structural integrity is regularly monitored to address any maintenance needs and uphold its flood risk reduction purpose effectively. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are yet to be fully documented, underscoring the importance of continued oversight and preparedness for any potential emergencies or natural disasters.

Positioned within Congressional District 02 of Maine, Whitney plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. With its primary purpose focused on flood risk reduction, the dam's significance in protecting the surrounding area from inundation and ensuring water security underscores the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in addressing the impacts of climate change. As a key component of the local government's disaster response and preparedness framework, Whitney stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between federal and state agencies in safeguarding communities and promoting environmental stewardship in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

2600

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

Whitney Brook

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

207

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

8

Nid Storage

2898

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.