Pigeon Brook

Pigeon· Cumberland, Maine· Built 1811· Earth· 12 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Pigeon Brook is classified as significant hazard in Maine. It was completed in 1811 and is 215 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 12 ft (taller than 32.9% in ME)
Dam Length400 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage114 acre-ft
Normal Storage90 acre-ft
Surface Area12 acres
Drainage Area2 sq mi
Year Completed1811 (215 years old)
NID IDME00787

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MEMA

Ownership

Donald & Elizabeth Harrington / Joel Sanborn

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Pigeon Brook?

Pigeon Brook is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Pigeon Brook?

Pigeon Brook is owned by Donald & Elizabeth Harrington / Joel Sanborn (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Pigeon Brook built?

Pigeon Brook was completed in 1811, making it 215 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Pigeon Brook?

Pigeon Brook serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Pigeon Brook?

Pigeon Brook has a dam height of 12 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.