Pioneer
Key Takeaway
Pioneer is classified as low hazard in Maine. It was completed in 1890 and is 136 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 12 ft (taller than 32.9% in ME) |
| Dam Length | 570 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 250 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 250 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 30 acres |
| Drainage Area | 320 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 15,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1890 (136 years old) |
| NID ID | ME00110 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Town of Pittsfield, ME
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Waverly Avenue
Somerset, ME
Significant Hazard 11 ftBurnham
Somerset, ME
Low Hazard 32 ftSebasticook
Penobscot, ME
Low Hazard 15 ftGreat Moose Lake
Somerset, ME
Significant Hazard 16 ftIndian Pond
Somerset, ME
Low Hazard 12 ftMulligan Bog
Somerset, ME
Low Hazard 14 ftCarlton Pond Dam
Waldo, ME
Low Hazard 15 ftPlymouth
Penobscot, ME
Low Hazard 11 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Pioneer?
Pioneer is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Pioneer?
Pioneer is owned by Town of Pittsfield, ME (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Pioneer built?
Pioneer was completed in 1890, making it 136 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 Pioneer?
Pioneer serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Pioneer?
Pioneer 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.
When was Pioneer last inspected?
Pioneer was last inspected on September 6, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.