Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 38, § 467 (2025)
All surface waters lying within the boundaries of the State that are in river basins having a drainage area greater than 100 square miles that are not classified as lakes or ponds are classified in this section.
1. Androscoggin River Basin
A. Androscoggin River, main stem, including all impoundments.
(3) From Worumbo Dam in Lisbon Falls to a line formed by the extension of the Bath-Brunswick boundary across Merrymeeting Bay in a northwesterly direction - Class B.
[PL 2021, c. 551, §19 (AMD).]
B. Little Androscoggin River Drainage.
(1) Little Androscoggin River, main stem. (a) From the outlet of Bryant Pond to the Maine Central Railroad bridge in South Paris - Class A. (b) From the Maine Central Railroad bridge in South Paris to its confluence with the Androscoggin River - Class C.
(a) From the outlet of Bryant Pond to the Maine Central Railroad bridge in South Paris - Class A.
(b) From the Maine Central Railroad bridge in South Paris to its confluence with the Androscoggin River - Class C.
(2) Little Androscoggin River, tributaries - Class B unless otherwise specified. (a) Outlet of Thompson Lake in Oxford - Class C. (b) Andrews Brook in Woodstock - Class A. (f) Bog Brook and tributaries in Minot, Oxford and Hebron - Class A. (g) Twitchell Brook and its tributaries in Greenwood and Albany Township - Class A. (h) Tributaries upstream of the confluence with Twitchell Brook in Greenwood - Class A.
(a) Outlet of Thompson Lake in Oxford - Class C.
(b) Andrews Brook in Woodstock - Class A.
(f) Bog Brook and tributaries in Minot, Oxford and Hebron - Class A.
(g) Twitchell Brook and its tributaries in Greenwood and Albany Township - Class A.
(h) Tributaries upstream of the confluence with Twitchell Brook in Greenwood - Class A.
[PL 2021, c. 551, §20 (AMD).]
C. Androscoggin River, Upper Drainage; that portion within the State lying above the river's most upstream crossing of the Maine-New Hampshire boundary - Class A unless otherwise specified.
(7) Dodge Pond Stream in Rangeley - Class AA.
[PL 2009, c. 163, §1 (AMD).]
D. Androscoggin River, minor tributaries - Class B unless otherwise specified.
(11) Meadow Brook in Woodstock - Class A.
[PL 2021, c. 551, §§21-23 (AMD).]
[PL 2021, c. 551, §§19-23 (AMD).]
2. Dennys River Basin
A. Dennys River, main stem.
(2) From the Bunker Hill Road bridge to tidewater - Class B. Further, the Legislature finds that the free-flowing habitat of this river segment provides irreplaceable social and economic benefits and that this use must be maintained.
[PL 2003, c. 551, §7 (AMD).]
B. Dennys River, tributaries - Class A unless otherwise specified.
(3) Cathance Stream below the Great Works Impoundment in Edmunds Township - Class AA.
[PL 2003, c. 663, §1 (AMD).]
[PL 2003, c. 663, §1 (AMD).]
3. East Machias River Basin
A. East Machias River, main stem.
(2) From a point located 0.25 miles above the Route 1 bridge to tidewater - Class B. Further, the Legislature finds that the free-flowing habitat of this river segment provides irreplaceable social and economic benefits and that this use must be maintained.
[PL 1989, c. 764, §4 (AMD).]
B. East Machias River, tributaries - Class A unless otherwise specified.
(7) Clifford Brook, also known as Clifford Stream, in Marion Township - Class AA.
[PL 2017, c. 137, Pt. B, §3 (AMD).]
[PL 2017, c. 137, Pt. B, §3 (AMD).]
4. Kennebec River Basin
A. Kennebec River, main stem.
(10-A) From the Shawmut Dam to its confluence with Messalonskee Stream, excluding all impoundments - Class B. (a) Waters impounded by the Hydro-Kennebec Dam and the Lockwood Dam in Waterville-Winslow - Class C.
(a) Waters impounded by the Hydro-Kennebec Dam and the Lockwood Dam in Waterville-Winslow - Class C.
(14) From a line drawn across the tidal estuary of the Kennebec River due east of Abagadasset Point, to a line across the southwesterly area of Merrymeeting Bay formed by an extension of the Brunswick-Bath boundary across the bay in a northwesterly direction to the westerly shore of Merrymeeting Bay and to a line drawn from Chop Point in Woolwich to West Chop Point in Bath - Class B. Further, the Legislature finds that the free-flowing habitat of this river segment provides irreplaceable social and economic benefits and that this use must be maintained.
[RR 2009, c. 1, §30 (COR).]
B. Carrabassett River Drainage.
(1) Carrabassett River, main stem. (a) Above a point located 1.0 mile above the dam in Kingfield - Class AA. (b) From a point located 1.0 mile above the dam in Kingfield to a point located 1.0 mile above the railroad bridge in North Anson - Class A. (c) From a point located 1.0 mile above the railroad bridge in North Anson to its confluence with the Kennebec River - Class B.
(a) Above a point located 1.0 mile above the dam in Kingfield - Class AA.
(b) From a point located 1.0 mile above the dam in Kingfield to a point located 1.0 mile above the railroad bridge in North Anson - Class A.
(c) From a point located 1.0 mile above the railroad bridge in North Anson to its confluence with the Kennebec River - Class B.
(2) Carrabassett River, tributaries - Class A unless otherwise specified. (a) South Branch Carrabassett River - Class AA. The Legislature finds, however, that permitted water withdrawal from this river segment provides significant social and economic benefits and that this existing use may be maintained. (b) All tributaries entering the Carrabassett River below the Wire Bridge in New Portland - Class B. (c) West Branch Carrabassett River above its confluence with Alder Stream - Class AA.
(a) South Branch Carrabassett River - Class AA. The Legislature finds, however, that permitted water withdrawal from this river segment provides significant social and economic benefits and that this existing use may be maintained.
(b) All tributaries entering the Carrabassett River below the Wire Bridge in New Portland - Class B.
(c) West Branch Carrabassett River above its confluence with Alder Stream - Class AA.
[PL 1999, c. 277, §5 (RPR).]
C. Cobbosseecontee Stream Drainage.
(2) Cobbosseecontee Stream, tributaries - Class B.
[PL 1989, c. 228, §2 (RPR).]
D. Dead River Drainage.
(1) Dead River, main stem. (a) From the Long Falls Dam to a point 5,100 feet below the dam - Class A. (b) From a point 5,100 feet below Long Falls Dam to its confluence with the Kennebec River - Class AA.
(a) From the Long Falls Dam to a point 5,100 feet below the dam - Class A.
(b) From a point 5,100 feet below Long Falls Dam to its confluence with the Kennebec River - Class AA.
(2) Dead River, tributaries - Class A unless otherwise specified. (a) Black Brook below Dead River Hatchery - Class B. (b) Stratton Brook, Eustis, from the upper Route 16/27 bridge to its confluence with Flagstaff Lake - Class B. (c) Spencer Stream and Little Spencer Stream - Class AA. (d) Horseshoe Stream in Chain of Ponds Township - Class AA.
(a) Black Brook below Dead River Hatchery - Class B.
(b) Stratton Brook, Eustis, from the upper Route 16/27 bridge to its confluence with Flagstaff Lake - Class B.
(c) Spencer Stream and Little Spencer Stream - Class AA.
(d) Horseshoe Stream in Chain of Ponds Township - Class AA.
[PL 2003, c. 317, §7 (AMD).]
E. Messalonskee Stream Drainage.
(1) Messalonskee Stream, main stem. (a) From the outlet of Messalonskee Lake to its confluence with the Kennebec River, including all impoundments except Rice Rips Lake - Class C.
(a) From the outlet of Messalonskee Lake to its confluence with the Kennebec River, including all impoundments except Rice Rips Lake - Class C.
(2) Messalonskee Stream, tributaries - Class B unless otherwise specified. (a) Rome Trout Brook in Rome - Class A.
(a) Rome Trout Brook in Rome - Class A.
[PL 2003, c. 317, §8 (AMD).]
F. Moose River Drainage.
(1) Moose River, main stem. (a) Above its confluence with Number One Brook in Beattie Township - Class A. (b) From its confluence with Number One Brook in Beattie Township to its confluence with Attean Pond - Class AA. (c) From the outlet of Attean Pond to the Route 201 bridge in Jackman - Class A. (d) From the Route 201 bridge in Jackman to its confluence with Long Pond - Class B. (e) From the outlet of Long Pond to its confluence with Moosehead Lake - Class A.
(a) Above its confluence with Number One Brook in Beattie Township - Class A.
(b) From its confluence with Number One Brook in Beattie Township to its confluence with Attean Pond - Class AA.
(c) From the outlet of Attean Pond to the Route 201 bridge in Jackman - Class A.
(d) From the Route 201 bridge in Jackman to its confluence with Long Pond - Class B.
(e) From the outlet of Long Pond to its confluence with Moosehead Lake - Class A.
(2) Moose River, tributaries - Class A.
[PL 1989, c. 228, §2 (RPR).]
G. Sandy River Drainage.
(1) Sandy River, main stem. (a) From the outlet of Sandy River Ponds to the Route 142 bridge in Phillips - Class AA. (b) From the Route 142 bridge in Phillips to its confluence with the Kennebec River - Class B.
(a) From the outlet of Sandy River Ponds to the Route 142 bridge in Phillips - Class AA.
(b) From the Route 142 bridge in Phillips to its confluence with the Kennebec River - Class B.
(2) Sandy River, tributaries - Class B unless otherwise specified. (a) All tributaries entering above the Route 142 bridge in Phillips - Class A unless otherwise specified. (a-1) South Branch Sandy River and its tributaries - Class AA. (a-2) Cottle Brook and its tributaries - Class AA. (b) Wilson Stream, main stem, below the outlet of Wilson Pond - Class C. (c) Mount Blue Stream and its tributaries - Class A. (d) Orbeton Stream above Toothaker Pond Road and its tributaries - Class AA.
(a) All tributaries entering above the Route 142 bridge in Phillips - Class A unless otherwise specified.
(a-1) South Branch Sandy River and its tributaries - Class AA.
(a-2) Cottle Brook and its tributaries - Class AA.
(b) Wilson Stream, main stem, below the outlet of Wilson Pond - Class C.
(c) Mount Blue Stream and its tributaries - Class A.
(d) Orbeton Stream above Toothaker Pond Road and its tributaries - Class AA.
[PL 2021, c. 551, §24 (AMD).]
H. Sebasticook River Drainage.
(1) Sebasticook River, main stem, including all impoundments. (a) From the confluence of the East Branch and the West Branch to its confluence with the Kennebec River - Class C.
(a) From the confluence of the East Branch and the West Branch to its confluence with the Kennebec River - Class C.
(2) Sebasticook River, tributaries - Class B unless otherwise specified. (a) Sebasticook River, East Branch from the outlet of Corundel Lake to its confluence with the West Branch - Class C. (b) Sebasticook River, West Branch main stem, from the outlet of Great Moose Lake to its confluence with the East Branch, including all impoundments - Class C. (c) Johnson Brook and tributaries in Burnham - Class A. (d) Martin Stream and tributaries upstream of the Ridge Road in Plymouth - Class A. (e) Halfmoon Stream upstream of Route 220 in Thorndike and Knox - Class A. (f) Crosby Brook in Unity and Thorndike - Class A. (g) Hall Brook in Thorndike - Class A.
(a) Sebasticook River, East Branch from the outlet of Corundel Lake to its confluence with the West Branch - Class C.
(b) Sebasticook River, West Branch main stem, from the outlet of Great Moose Lake to its confluence with the East Branch, including all impoundments - Class C.
(c) Johnson Brook and tributaries in Burnham - Class A.
(d) Martin Stream and tributaries upstream of the Ridge Road in Plymouth - Class A.
(e) Halfmoon Stream upstream of Route 220 in Thorndike and Knox - Class A.
(f) Crosby Brook in Unity and Thorndike - Class A.
(g) Hall Brook in Thorndike - Class A.
[PL 2003, c. 317, §9 (RPR).]
I. Kennebec River, minor tributaries - Class B unless otherwise specified.
(2) All tidal portions of tributaries entering between the Sidney-Vassalboro-Augusta town line and a line drawn across the tidal estuary of the Kennebec River due east of Abagadasset Point - Class B, unless otherwise specified. (a) Eastern River from head of tide to its confluence with the Kennebec River - Class C.
(a) Eastern River from head of tide to its confluence with the Kennebec River - Class C.
(7) Tributaries to East Branch Wesserunsett Stream - Class A.
[PL 2019, c. 333, §2 (AMD).]
[PL 2021, c. 551, §24 (AMD).]
5. Machias River Basin
A. Machias River, main stem.
(2) From a point 100 feet upstream of the Route 1A bridge in Whitneyville to tidewater - Class B. Further, the Legislature finds that the free-flowing habitat of this river segment provides irreplaceable social and economic benefits and that this use must be maintained.
[PL 1989, c. 764, §4 (AMD).]
B. Machias River, tributaries - Class A unless otherwise specified.
(15) Black Brook in Township 25 Middle Division - Class AA.
[PL 2021, c. 551, §§25-27 (AMD).]
[PL 2021, c. 551, §§25-27 (AMD).]
5-A. Medomak River Basin
A. Medomak River, main stem.
(2) From the Wagner Bridge Road in the Town of Waldoboro to tidewater - Class B.
[PL 2017, c. 137, Pt. B, §5 (AMD).]
B. Medomak River, tributaries - Class A unless otherwise specified.
[PL 1993, c. 32, §1 (NEW).]
[PL 2017, c. 137, Pt. B, §5 (AMD).]
6. Mousam River Basin
A. Mousam River, main stem.
(3) From the outlet of Estes Lake to tidewater - Class B.
[PL 1985, c. 698, §15 (NEW).]
B. Mousam River, tributaries - Class B.
[PL 1989, c. 764, §5 (AMD).]
[PL 1989, c. 764, §5 (AMD).]
6-A. Narraguagus River Basin
A. Narraguagus River, main stem.
(2) From the confluence with the West Branch of the Narraguagus River in Cherryfield to tidewater - Class B.
[PL 1989, c. 764, §6 (NEW).]
B. Narraguagus River, tributaries - Class A unless otherwise specified.
(14) Lawrence Brook - Class AA.
[PL 2021, c. 503, §4 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 551, §28 (AMD).]
[PL 2021, c. 503, §4 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 551, §28 (AMD).]
7. Penobscot River Basin
A. Penobscot River, main stem.
(7) From the Maine Central Railroad bridge in Bangor to a line extended in an east-west direction from a point 1.25 miles upstream of the confluence of Reeds Brook in Hampden - Class B. Further, the Legislature finds that the free-flowing habitat of this river segment provides irreplaceable social and economic benefits and that this use must be maintained.
[PL 2019, c. 333, §3 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 463, §6 (AMD).]
B. Penobscot River, East Branch Drainage.
(1) East Branch of the Penobscot River, main stem. (a) Above its confluence with Grand Lake Mattagamon - Class A. (b) From the dam at the outlet of Grand Lake Mattagamon to a point located 1,000 feet downstream from the dam - Class A. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A. (c) From a point located 1,000 feet downstream from the dam at the outlet of Grand Lake Mattagamon to its confluence with the Mattaceunk impoundment as it existed on July 14, 1990 - Class AA. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A. (d) From its confluence with the Mattaceunk impoundment as it existed on July 14, 1990 to its confluence with the West Branch - Class B. Further, there may be no new direct discharges to this segment after January 1, 2019. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
(a) Above its confluence with Grand Lake Mattagamon - Class A.
(b) From the dam at the outlet of Grand Lake Mattagamon to a point located 1,000 feet downstream from the dam - Class A. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
(c) From a point located 1,000 feet downstream from the dam at the outlet of Grand Lake Mattagamon to its confluence with the Mattaceunk impoundment as it existed on July 14, 1990 - Class AA. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
(d) From its confluence with the Mattaceunk impoundment as it existed on July 14, 1990 to its confluence with the West Branch - Class B. Further, there may be no new direct discharges to this segment after January 1, 2019. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
(2) East Branch of the Penobscot River, tributaries - Class A unless otherwise specified. (a) All tributaries, any portion of which is located within the boundaries of Baxter State Park - Class AA. (b) Sawtelle Brook, from a point located 1,000 feet downstream from the dam at the outlet of Sawtelle Deadwater to its confluence with the Seboeis River - Class AA. (c) Seboeis River, from the outlet of Snowshoe Lake to its confluence with the East Branch - Class AA. (d) Wassataquoik Stream, from the boundary of Baxter State Park to its confluence with the East Branch - Class AA. (e) Webster Brook, from a point located 1,000 feet downstream from the dam at the outlet of Telos Lake to its confluence with Webster Lake - Class AA. (f) All tributaries entering the East Branch Penobscot River from the west, any portion of which is located within the boundaries of the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument - Class AA. (g) Those segments of any tributary of the Sebois River that are located within the boundaries of the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument - Class AA. (h) Dry Brook, East Branch and West Branch Mud Brook and other tributaries located in T.3, R.7, W.E.L.S. that enter the East Branch Penobscot River from the east, any portion of which is located within the boundaries of the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument - Class AA.
(a) All tributaries, any portion of which is located within the boundaries of Baxter State Park - Class AA.
(b) Sawtelle Brook, from a point located 1,000 feet downstream from the dam at the outlet of Sawtelle Deadwater to its confluence with the Seboeis River - Class AA.
(c) Seboeis River, from the outlet of Snowshoe Lake to its confluence with the East Branch - Class AA.
(d) Wassataquoik Stream, from the boundary of Baxter State Park to its confluence with the East Branch - Class AA.
(e) Webster Brook, from a point located 1,000 feet downstream from the dam at the outlet of Telos Lake to its confluence with Webster Lake - Class AA.
(f) All tributaries entering the East Branch Penobscot River from the west, any portion of which is located within the boundaries of the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument - Class AA.
(g) Those segments of any tributary of the Sebois River that are located within the boundaries of the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument - Class AA.
(h) Dry Brook, East Branch and West Branch Mud Brook and other tributaries located in T.3, R.7, W.E.L.S. that enter the East Branch Penobscot River from the east, any portion of which is located within the boundaries of the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument - Class AA.
[PL 2021, c. 551, §§29-31 (AMD).]
C. Penobscot River, West Branch Drainage.
(1) West Branch of the Penobscot River, main stem. (a) From the dam at the outlet of Seboomook Lake to a point located 1,000 feet downstream from the dam at the outlet of Seboomook Lake - Class B. (b) From a point located 1,000 feet downstream from the dam at the outlet of Seboomook Lake to its confluence with Chesuncook Lake - Class A. (b-1) From its confluence with Chesuncook Lake to Ripogenus Dam - Class GPA as modified by section 464, subsection 9‑A. (c) From Ripogenus Dam through Ripogenus Gorge to the McKay powerhouse - Class B. (d) From the McKay powerhouse to a point located 1,000 feet downstream - Class A. (d-1) From a point located 1,000 feet downstream of the McKay powerhouse to its confluence with Ambajejus Lake - Class AA. (e) From the outlet of Elbow Lake to the outlet of Ferguson and Quakish Lakes - Class B. (f) From the outlet of Ferguson and Quakish Lakes to its confluence with Millinocket Stream - Class C. (g) From the confluence with Millinocket Stream to its confluence with the East Branch of the Penobscot River, including all impoundments - Class B.
(a) From the dam at the outlet of Seboomook Lake to a point located 1,000 feet downstream from the dam at the outlet of Seboomook Lake - Class B.
(b) From a point located 1,000 feet downstream from the dam at the outlet of Seboomook Lake to its confluence with Chesuncook Lake - Class A.
(b-1) From its confluence with Chesuncook Lake to Ripogenus Dam - Class GPA as modified by section 464, subsection 9‑A.
(c) From Ripogenus Dam through Ripogenus Gorge to the McKay powerhouse - Class B.
(d) From the McKay powerhouse to a point located 1,000 feet downstream - Class A.
(d-1) From a point located 1,000 feet downstream of the McKay powerhouse to its confluence with Ambajejus Lake - Class AA.
(e) From the outlet of Elbow Lake to the outlet of Ferguson and Quakish Lakes - Class B.
(f) From the outlet of Ferguson and Quakish Lakes to its confluence with Millinocket Stream - Class C.
(g) From the confluence with Millinocket Stream to its confluence with the East Branch of the Penobscot River, including all impoundments - Class B.
(2) West Branch of the Penobscot River, tributaries - Class A unless otherwise specified. (a) Those segments of any tributary that are located within the boundaries of Baxter State Park or the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument - Class AA. (b) Those tributaries entering between Ripogenus Dam and the confluence with Ambajejus Lake - Class AA. (c) Millinocket Stream, from the railroad bridge near the Millinocket-T.3 Indian Purchase boundary to its confluence with the West Branch Canal - Class B. (d) Millinocket Stream from the confluence of the West Branch Canal to its confluence with the West Branch of the Penobscot River - Class B. (e) Nahmakanta Stream and its tributaries including tributaries to Nahmakanta Lake and upstream lakes - Class AA.
(a) Those segments of any tributary that are located within the boundaries of Baxter State Park or the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument - Class AA.
(b) Those tributaries entering between Ripogenus Dam and the confluence with Ambajejus Lake - Class AA.
(c) Millinocket Stream, from the railroad bridge near the Millinocket-T.3 Indian Purchase boundary to its confluence with the West Branch Canal - Class B.
(d) Millinocket Stream from the confluence of the West Branch Canal to its confluence with the West Branch of the Penobscot River - Class B.
(e) Nahmakanta Stream and its tributaries including tributaries to Nahmakanta Lake and upstream lakes - Class AA.
[PL 2021, c. 551, §§32-36 (AMD).]
D. Mattawamkeag River Drainage.
(1) Mattawamkeag River, main stem. (a) From the confluence of the East Branch and the West Branch to the Kingman-Mattawamkeag boundary - Class A. (b) From the Kingman-Mattawamkeag boundary to its confluence with the Penobscot River - Class AA.
(a) From the confluence of the East Branch and the West Branch to the Kingman-Mattawamkeag boundary - Class A.
(b) From the Kingman-Mattawamkeag boundary to its confluence with the Penobscot River - Class AA.
(2) Mattawamkeag River, tributaries - Class A unless otherwise specified. (a) East Branch Mattawamkeag River above Red Bridge - Class B. (d) West Branch Mattawamkeag River from its source at Rockabema Lake to its confluence with Mattawamkeag Lake - Class A. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
(a) East Branch Mattawamkeag River above Red Bridge - Class B.
(d) West Branch Mattawamkeag River from its source at Rockabema Lake to its confluence with Mattawamkeag Lake - Class A. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
[PL 2019, c. 333, §6 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 463, §8 (AMD).]
E. Piscataquis River Drainage.
(1) Piscataquis River, main stem. (a) From the confluence of the East Branch and the West Branch to the Route 15 bridge in Guilford - Class A. (b) From the Route 15 bridge in Guilford to the Maine Central Railroad bridge in Dover-Foxcroft - Class B. (c) From the Maine Central Railroad bridge in Dover-Foxcroft to its confluence with the Penobscot River - Class B.
(a) From the confluence of the East Branch and the West Branch to the Route 15 bridge in Guilford - Class A.
(b) From the Route 15 bridge in Guilford to the Maine Central Railroad bridge in Dover-Foxcroft - Class B.
(c) From the Maine Central Railroad bridge in Dover-Foxcroft to its confluence with the Penobscot River - Class B.
(2) Piscataquis River, tributaries - Class B unless otherwise specified. (a) Except as otherwise provided, East and West Branches of the Piscataquis River and their tributaries above their confluence near Blanchard - Class A. (b) East Branch of the Piscataquis River from 1,000 feet below Shirley Pond to its confluence with the West Branch - Class AA. (c) Pleasant River, East Branch and its tributaries - Class A. (d) Pleasant River, West Branch, from the outlet of Fourth West Branch Pond to its confluence with the East Branch - Class AA. (e) Pleasant River, West Branch tributaries - Class A unless otherwise specified. (e-1) Houston Brook and its tributaries - Class AA. (f) Sebec River and its tributaries above Route 6 in Milo - Class A. (g) West Branch of the Piscataquis River from 1,000 feet below West Shirley Bog to its confluence with the East Branch - Class AA. (h) Black Stream - Class A. (i) Cold Stream - Class A. (j) Kingsbury Stream - Class A. (k) Schoodic Stream and its tributaries - Class A. (l) Scutaze Stream and its tributaries - Class A. (m) Seboeis Stream, including East and West Branches, and tributaries - Class A. (n) Alder Stream and its tributaries - Class A.
(a) Except as otherwise provided, East and West Branches of the Piscataquis River and their tributaries above their confluence near Blanchard - Class A.
(b) East Branch of the Piscataquis River from 1,000 feet below Shirley Pond to its confluence with the West Branch - Class AA.
(c) Pleasant River, East Branch and its tributaries - Class A.
(d) Pleasant River, West Branch, from the outlet of Fourth West Branch Pond to its confluence with the East Branch - Class AA.
(e) Pleasant River, West Branch tributaries - Class A unless otherwise specified.
(e-1) Houston Brook and its tributaries - Class AA.
(f) Sebec River and its tributaries above Route 6 in Milo - Class A.
(g) West Branch of the Piscataquis River from 1,000 feet below West Shirley Bog to its confluence with the East Branch - Class AA.
(h) Black Stream - Class A.
(i) Cold Stream - Class A.
(j) Kingsbury Stream - Class A.
(k) Schoodic Stream and its tributaries - Class A.
(l) Scutaze Stream and its tributaries - Class A.
(m) Seboeis Stream, including East and West Branches, and tributaries - Class A.
(n) Alder Stream and its tributaries - Class A.
[PL 2021, c. 551, §§37-40 (AMD).]
F. Penobscot River, minor tributaries - Class B unless otherwise specified.
(6) Passadumkeag River and its tributaries - Class A, unless otherwise specified. (a) Passadumkeag River from the Pumpkinhill Dam to its confluence with the Penobscot River - Class AA. (b) Ayers Brook - Class AA.
(a) Passadumkeag River from the Pumpkinhill Dam to its confluence with the Penobscot River - Class AA.
(b) Ayers Brook - Class AA.
(7-A) Souadabscook Stream, tributaries of - Class B, unless otherwise specified. (a) West Branch Souadabscook Stream (Hampden, Newburgh) - Class A. (b) Brown Brook (Hampden) - Class A.
(a) West Branch Souadabscook Stream (Hampden, Newburgh) - Class A.
(b) Brown Brook (Hampden) - Class A.
(17) Narrimissic River, also known as Narramissic River, in Bucksport and Orland, including all impoundments - Class B.
[PL 2021, c. 551, §§41, 42 (AMD).]
[PL 2021, c. 551, §§29-42 (AMD).]
8. Pleasant River Basin
A. Pleasant River, main stem.
(2) From the Maine Central Railroad bridge to tidewater - Class B. Further, the Legislature finds that the free-flowing habitat of this river segment provides irreplaceable social and economic benefits and that this use must be maintained.
[PL 1989, c. 764, §8 (AMD).]
B. Pleasant River, tributaries - Class A unless otherwise specified.
(5) Western Little River from its confluence with Montegail Stream to the Pleasant River in Columbia, Township 18 Middle Division and Township 19 Middle Division - Class AA.
[PL 2003, c. 663, §4 (AMD).]
[PL 2003, c. 663, §4 (AMD).]
9. Presumpscot River Basin
A. Presumpscot River, main stem.
(1-A) From the outlet of Dundee Pond to its confluence with the Pleasant River - Class A. For the purposes of water quality certification of the hydropower project at the Dundee Dam under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, Public Law 92-500, Section 401, as amended, and licensing modifications to this hydropower project under section 636 and any other licensing proceeding affecting this project, the habitat characteristics and aquatic life criteria of Class A are deemed to be met in the waters immediately downstream and measurably affected by that project if the criteria of section 465, subsection 3, paragraphs A and C are met.
For the purposes of water quality certification of the hydropower project at the Dundee Dam under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, Public Law 92-500, Section 401, as amended, and licensing modifications to this hydropower project under section 636 and any other licensing proceeding affecting this project, the habitat characteristics and aquatic life criteria of Class A are deemed to be met in the waters immediately downstream and measurably affected by that project if the criteria of section 465, subsection 3, paragraphs A and C are met.
(4) From Saccarappa Falls, also known as Sacarappa Falls, to tidewater - Class C. For the period beginning October 15, 2023 and ending January 1, 2028, there may be no new direct discharges to this segment except for any new direct storm water discharges licensed under section 413, section 420‑D or article 6.
[PL 2023, c. 295, §1 (AMD).]
B. Presumpscot River, tributaries - Class A unless otherwise specified.
(4) Mile Brook, also known as Mill Brook, (Casco) - Class B.
[PL 2017, c. 137, Pt. B, §8 (AMD).]
[PL 2023, c. 295, §1 (AMD).]
10. Narraguagus River Basin
[PL 1999, c. 277, §13 (RP).]
11. Royal River Basin
A. Royal River, main stem.
(2) From its confluence with Collyer Brook to tidewater - Class B.
[PL 1999, c. 277, §14 (AMD).]
B. Royal River, tributaries - Class B unless otherwise specified.
(1) Collyer Brook from Route 202 to the confluence with the Royal River - Class A.
[PL 2003, c. 317, §14 (AMD).]
[PL 2003, c. 317, §14 (AMD).]
12. Saco River Basin
A. Saco River, main stem.
(11) From the Interstate 95 bridge to tidewater - Class B.
[PL 2003, c. 317, §15 (AMD).]
B. Saco River, tributaries, those waters lying within the State - Class B unless otherwise specified.
(4) Ossipee River Drainage, those waters lying within the State - Class B unless otherwise specified. (a) Emerson Brook in Parsonsfield - Class A. (b) South River and its tributaries (Parsonsfield), those waters lying within the State - Class A.
(a) Emerson Brook in Parsonsfield - Class A.
(b) South River and its tributaries (Parsonsfield), those waters lying within the State - Class A.
(5) Back Brook and its tributaries (Limington) - Class A.
[PL 2019, c. 333, §7 (AMD).]
[PL 2019, c. 333, §7 (AMD).]
13. St. Croix River Basin
A. St. Croix River, main stem.
(4) From the Woodland Dam to tidewater, those waters lying within the State, including all impoundments - Class C.
[PL 2019, c. 463, §9 (AMD).]
B. St. Croix River, tributaries, those waters lying within the State - Class B unless otherwise specified.
(5) Berry Brook, George Brook, Huntley Brook, Musquash Stream, Flipper Creek, Patten Pond Stream and all segments of the West Branch of the St. Croix River between the West Grand Lake Dam and Route 1 - Class A. These waters are subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
[PL 2019, c. 463, §9 (AMD).]
[PL 2019, c. 463, §9 (AMD).]
14. St. George River Basin
A. St. George River, main stem.
(4) From Route 90 to tidewater - Class B.
[PL 2021, c. 503, §5 (AMD).]
B. St. George River, tributaries - Class A unless otherwise specified.
(2) All tributaries entering downstream of Route 90 in Warren - Class B.
[PL 1989, c. 764, §15 (RPR).]
[PL 2021, c. 503, §5 (AMD).]
15. St. John River Basin
A. St. John River, main stem.
(4) From the international bridge in Madawaska to where the international boundary leaves the river in Hamlin, those waters lying within the State, including all impoundments - Class C.
[PL 2019, c. 463, §10 (AMD).]
B. Allagash River Drainage.
(1) Allagash River, main stem. (a) From Churchill Dam to a point located 1,000 feet downstream from Churchill Dam - Class A. (b) From a point located 1,000 feet downstream from Churchill Dam to its confluence with Gerald Brook in Allagash - Class AA. (c) From its confluence with Gerald Brook in Allagash to its confluence with the St. John River - Class A.
(a) From Churchill Dam to a point located 1,000 feet downstream from Churchill Dam - Class A.
(b) From a point located 1,000 feet downstream from Churchill Dam to its confluence with Gerald Brook in Allagash - Class AA.
(c) From its confluence with Gerald Brook in Allagash to its confluence with the St. John River - Class A.
(2) Allagash River, tributaries - Class A unless otherwise specified. (a) Allagash Stream, from the outlet of Allagash Lake to its confluence with Chamberlain Lake - Class AA. (b) Chemquasabamticook Stream, from the outlet of Chemquasabamticook Lake to its confluence with Long Lake - Class AA. (c) Musquacook Stream, from the outlet of Third Musquacook Lake to its confluence with the Allagash River - Class AA.
(a) Allagash Stream, from the outlet of Allagash Lake to its confluence with Chamberlain Lake - Class AA.
(b) Chemquasabamticook Stream, from the outlet of Chemquasabamticook Lake to its confluence with Long Lake - Class AA.
(c) Musquacook Stream, from the outlet of Third Musquacook Lake to its confluence with the Allagash River - Class AA.
[PL 1989, c. 764, §16 (RPR).]
C. Aroostook River Drainage.
(1) Aroostook River, main stem. (a) From the confluence of Millinocket Stream and Munsungan Stream to the Route 11 bridge - Class AA. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A. Pursuant to section 464, subsection 4, paragraph F, subparagraph (2), the segment from the confluence of St. Croix Stream to the confluence of Scopan Stream and the segment starting 1,500 feet upstream from the confluence of the Machias River to the Route 11 bridge are not designated as outstanding national resources. (b) From the Route 11 bridge to the Sheridan Dam - Class B. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A. (c) From the Sheridan Dam to its confluence with Presque Isle Stream, including all impoundments - Class B. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A. (d) From its confluence with Presque Isle Stream to a point located 3.0 miles upstream of the intake of the Caribou water supply, including all impoundments - Class C. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A. (e) From a point located 3.0 miles upstream of the intake of the Caribou water supply to a point located 100 yards downstream of the intake of the Caribou water supply, including all impoundments - Class B. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A. (f) From a point located 100 yards downstream of the intake of the Caribou water supply to the international boundary, including all impoundments - Class C. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
(a) From the confluence of Millinocket Stream and Munsungan Stream to the Route 11 bridge - Class AA. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A. Pursuant to section 464, subsection 4, paragraph F, subparagraph (2), the segment from the confluence of St. Croix Stream to the confluence of Scopan Stream and the segment starting 1,500 feet upstream from the confluence of the Machias River to the Route 11 bridge are not designated as outstanding national resources.
(b) From the Route 11 bridge to the Sheridan Dam - Class B. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
(c) From the Sheridan Dam to its confluence with Presque Isle Stream, including all impoundments - Class B. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
(d) From its confluence with Presque Isle Stream to a point located 3.0 miles upstream of the intake of the Caribou water supply, including all impoundments - Class C. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
(e) From a point located 3.0 miles upstream of the intake of the Caribou water supply to a point located 100 yards downstream of the intake of the Caribou water supply, including all impoundments - Class B. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
(f) From a point located 100 yards downstream of the intake of the Caribou water supply to the international boundary, including all impoundments - Class C. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
(2) Aroostook River, tributaries, those waters lying within the State - Class A unless otherwise specified. (a) All tributaries of the Aroostook River entering below the confluence of the Machias River that are not otherwise classified - Class B. (b) Little Machias River and its tributaries - Class A. (c) Little Madawaska River and its tributaries, including Madawaska Lake tributaries above the Caribou-Connor Township line - Class A. (d) Machias River, from the outlet of Big Machias Lake to the Aroostook River - Class AA. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A. Pursuant to section 464, subsection 4, paragraph F, subparagraph (2), the segment from one mile upstream of the Garfield Road bridge to the confluence with the Aroostook River is not designated as an outstanding national resource. (e) Millinocket Stream, from the outlet of Millinocket Lake to its confluence with Munsungan Stream - Class AA. (f) Munsungan Stream, from the outlet of Little Munsungan Lake to its confluence with Millinocket Stream - Class AA. (g) Presque Isle Stream and its tributaries above the Mapleton-Presque Isle town line - Class A. (h) St. Croix Stream from its confluence with Hall Brook in T.9, R.5, W.E.L.S. to its confluence with the Aroostook River - Class AA. (j) Scopan Stream from the outlet of Scopan Lake to its confluence with the Aroostook River - Class C. (k) Limestone Stream from the Long Road bridge to the Canadian border - Class C. (l) Beaver Brook and its tributaries (T.14 R.6 W.E.L.S., T.14 R.5 W.E.L.S., T.13 R.5 W.E.L.S., Portage Lake, Ashland, Castle Hill) - Class A. (m) Gardner Brook and its tributaries (T.14 R.5 W.E.L.S., T.13 R.5 W.E.L.S., Wade) - Class A. (n) Salmon Brook and its tributaries (Perham, Westmanland) above Route 228 crossing on main stem in Perham - Class A. (o) West Branch Salmon Brook and its tributaries (Wade, Perham, T.14 R.5 W.E.L.S.) above the Washburn-Wade town line - Class A.
(a) All tributaries of the Aroostook River entering below the confluence of the Machias River that are not otherwise classified - Class B.
(b) Little Machias River and its tributaries - Class A.
(c) Little Madawaska River and its tributaries, including Madawaska Lake tributaries above the Caribou-Connor Township line - Class A.
(d) Machias River, from the outlet of Big Machias Lake to the Aroostook River - Class AA. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A. Pursuant to section 464, subsection 4, paragraph F, subparagraph (2), the segment from one mile upstream of the Garfield Road bridge to the confluence with the Aroostook River is not designated as an outstanding national resource.
(e) Millinocket Stream, from the outlet of Millinocket Lake to its confluence with Munsungan Stream - Class AA.
(f) Munsungan Stream, from the outlet of Little Munsungan Lake to its confluence with Millinocket Stream - Class AA.
(g) Presque Isle Stream and its tributaries above the Mapleton-Presque Isle town line - Class A.
(h) St. Croix Stream from its confluence with Hall Brook in T.9, R.5, W.E.L.S. to its confluence with the Aroostook River - Class AA.
(j) Scopan Stream from the outlet of Scopan Lake to its confluence with the Aroostook River - Class C.
(k) Limestone Stream from the Long Road bridge to the Canadian border - Class C.
(l) Beaver Brook and its tributaries (T.14 R.6 W.E.L.S., T.14 R.5 W.E.L.S., T.13 R.5 W.E.L.S., Portage Lake, Ashland, Castle Hill) - Class A.
(m) Gardner Brook and its tributaries (T.14 R.5 W.E.L.S., T.13 R.5 W.E.L.S., Wade) - Class A.
(n) Salmon Brook and its tributaries (Perham, Westmanland) above Route 228 crossing on main stem in Perham - Class A.
(o) West Branch Salmon Brook and its tributaries (Wade, Perham, T.14 R.5 W.E.L.S.) above the Washburn-Wade town line - Class A.
[PL 2021, c. 503, §§6, 7 (AMD).]
D. Fish River Drainage.
(1) Fish River, main stem. (a) From the outlet of Mud Pond to its confluence with St. Froid Lake - Class AA. (b) From the outlet of St. Froid Lake to its confluence with Eagle Lake - Class A. (c) From the outlet of Eagle Lake to its confluence with Perley Brook - Class A. (d) From its confluence with Perley Brook to the St. John River - Class B.
(a) From the outlet of Mud Pond to its confluence with St. Froid Lake - Class AA.
(b) From the outlet of St. Froid Lake to its confluence with Eagle Lake - Class A.
(c) From the outlet of Eagle Lake to its confluence with Perley Brook - Class A.
(d) From its confluence with Perley Brook to the St. John River - Class B.
(2) Fish River, tributaries - Class B unless otherwise specified. (a) All tributaries entering above the Route 11 bridge - Class A.
(a) All tributaries entering above the Route 11 bridge - Class A.
[PL 1999, c. 277, §20 (AMD).]
E. Meduxnekeag River Drainage.
(1) Meduxnekeag River, main stem. (a) From the outlet of Meduxnekeag Lake to the international boundary - Class B. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
(a) From the outlet of Meduxnekeag Lake to the international boundary - Class B. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
(2) Meduxnekeag River, tributaries - Class B unless otherwise specified. (a) North Branch of the Meduxnekeag River and its tributaries above the Monticello - T.C, R.2, W.E.L.S. boundary - Class A. (a-1) The North Branch of the Meduxnekeag River and its tributaries, including Dead Stream, from the source in T.8 R.3 W.E.L.S. to the international boundary are subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A. (b) Moose Brook and its tributaries, upstream of the Ludlow Road in Ludlow - Class A. (c) South Branch of the Meduxnekeag River and its tributaries, upstream of the Oliver Road in Cary - Class A. (d) Captain Ambrose Bear Stream and tributaries upstream of the Burnt Brow Bridge in Hammond - Class A. (e) All tributaries from the outlet of Meduxnekeag Lake to the international boundary are subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
(a) North Branch of the Meduxnekeag River and its tributaries above the Monticello - T.C, R.2, W.E.L.S. boundary - Class A.
(a-1) The North Branch of the Meduxnekeag River and its tributaries, including Dead Stream, from the source in T.8 R.3 W.E.L.S. to the international boundary are subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
(b) Moose Brook and its tributaries, upstream of the Ludlow Road in Ludlow - Class A.
(c) South Branch of the Meduxnekeag River and its tributaries, upstream of the Oliver Road in Cary - Class A.
(d) Captain Ambrose Bear Stream and tributaries upstream of the Burnt Brow Bridge in Hammond - Class A.
(e) All tributaries from the outlet of Meduxnekeag Lake to the international boundary are subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
[RR 2019, c. 1, Pt. A, §75 (COR).]
F. St. John River, minor tributaries, those waters lying within the State - Class A unless otherwise specified.
(5) Prestile Stream from its source to Route 1A in Mars Hill - Class A. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A. (a) Prestile Stream from Route 1A in Mars Hill to the international boundary - Class B. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
(a) Prestile Stream from Route 1A in Mars Hill to the international boundary - Class B. This segment is subject to a sustenance fishing designated use pursuant to section 466‑A.
(7) Violette Stream and its tributaries, from its source to the confluence with Caniba Brook - Class A.
[PL 2021, c. 551, §45 (AMD).]
[PL 2021, c. 503, §§6, 7 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 551, §45 (AMD).]
16. Salmon Falls River Basin
A. Salmon Falls River, main stem.
(2) From the Route 9 bridge to tidewater - Class C.
[PL 1999, c. 277, §21 (AMD).]
B. Salmon Falls River, tributaries, those waters lying within the State - Class B unless otherwise specified.
(2) Little River and its tributaries (Berwick, North Berwick, Lebanon) - Class A.
[PL 2009, c. 163, §12 (AMD).]
[PL 2009, c. 163, §12 (AMD).]
17. Sheepscot River Basin
A. Sheepscot River, main stem.
(3) From Route 17 to tidewater - Class AA.
[PL 2003, c. 317, §19 (RPR).]
B. Sheepscot River, tributaries - Class B unless otherwise specified.
(9) Culvert Pond Brook - Class A.
[PL 2003, c. 317, §19 (RPR).]
[PL 2003, c. 317, §19 (AMD).]
18. Union River Basin
A. Union River, main stem.
(1) From the outlet of Graham Lake to tidewater - Class B.
[PL 1989, c. 764, §19 (RPR).]
B. Union River, tributaries - Class A unless otherwise specified.
(2) Outlet of Green Lake (Ellsworth) - Class B.
[PL 1989, c. 764, §19 (NEW).]
[PL 1989, c. 764, §19 (RPR).]
PL 1985, c. 698, §15 (NEW). PL 1987, c. 189 (AMD). PL 1987, c. 192, §§17-22 (AMD). PL 1989, c. 228, §§1,2 (AMD). PL 1989, c. 746 (AMD). PL 1989, c. 764, §§2-19 (AMD). PL 1989, c. 890, §§A40,B68,69 (AMD). RR 1991, c. 2, §145 (COR). PL 1991, c. 66, §§A14,15 (AMD). PL 1991, c. 276 (AMD). PL 1991, c. 499, §§16,17 (AMD). PL 1991, c. 813, §§E1-5 (AMD). RR 1993, c. 1, §§115,116 (COR). PL 1993, c. 32, §1 (AMD). PL 1993, c. 344, §4 (AMD). PL 1993, c. 523, §1 (AMD). PL 1999, c. 277, §§1-22 (AMD). PL 2003, c. 317, §§1-19 (AMD). PL 2003, c. 317, §25 (AFF). PL 2003, c. 551, §7 (AMD). PL 2003, c. 663, §§1-4 (AMD). PL 2005, c. 159, §3 (AMD). PL 2005, c. 330, §11 (AMD). RR 2009, c. 1, §30 (COR). PL 2009, c. 163, §§1-12 (AMD). PL 2015, c. 12, §1 (AMD). PL 2017, c. 137, Pt. B, §§3-10 (AMD). PL 2019, c. 333, §§1-8 (AMD). PL 2019, c. 463, §§6-13 (AMD). RR 2019, c. 1, Pt. A, §75 (COR). PL 2021, c. 503, §§4-7 (AMD). PL 2021, c. 551, §§19-45 (AMD). PL 2023, c. 295, §1 (AMD).