Deer Rips Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gulf Island East Auburn
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Deer Rips, located in Lewiston - Auburn, Maine, is a concrete gravity dam on the Androscoggin River, completed in 1903 for hydroelectric purposes.
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Summary
Standing at 54 feet in height and spanning 939 feet in length, it boasts a storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 2865 square miles. With a maximum discharge of 105,000 cubic feet per second, Deer Rips plays a crucial role in harnessing the river's power for energy generation.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Deer Rips has a low hazard potential and is categorized as having moderate risk. Despite the dam's age, its condition assessment is currently not available, with the last inspection conducted in June 2018. While it lacks certain emergency preparedness measures like an Emergency Action Plan, Deer Rips continues to operate efficiently, contributing to the region's energy needs while also maintaining a focus on environmental sustainability.
As a key component of the New England District's water resource infrastructure, Deer Rips stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of hydroelectric power generation in Maine. With its multi-arch core design and rock foundation, the dam showcases the innovative engineering techniques of its time. As climate change impacts water resources, Deer Rips remains a beacon of resilience and adaptability in the face of evolving environmental challenges, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices for the future.
Year Completed |
1903 |
Dam Length |
939 |
Dam Height |
54 |
River Or Stream |
Androscoggin River |
Surface Area |
130 |
Drainage Area |
2865 |
Nid Storage |
1200 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
54 |
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.
Deer Rips
Turner Road Auburn