Gulf Island Reservoir Report
Nearby: East Auburn Deer Rips
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Gulf Island, a hydroelectric dam located in Lewiston - Auburn, Maine, is a key player in the management of water resources in the region.
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Summary
Built in 1926, this concrete, earth, and gravity dam stands at a height of 99 feet and spans 2488 feet in length, harnessing the power of the Androscoggin River to generate electricity and provide recreational opportunities for the community. With a storage capacity of 55,100 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 201,000 cubic feet per second, Gulf Island plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and ensuring water security in the area.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Gulf Island has a high hazard potential and is rated as very high risk due to its age and condition. Despite not being state regulated, the dam undergoes regular inspections to assess its safety and integrity, with emergency action plans in place to mitigate any potential risks. The dam's controlled spillway, outlet gates, and multi-arch core design highlight its engineering complexity and the importance of proper maintenance to prevent any potential hazards.
As a significant landmark in water resource management and climate resilience, Gulf Island serves as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship. Its role in providing clean energy, water storage, and recreational opportunities underscores the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in adapting to the challenges of a changing climate. With ongoing risk assessments and management measures, Gulf Island remains a vital asset in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1926 |
Dam Length |
2488 |
Dam Height |
99 |
River Or Stream |
Androscoggin River |
Surface Area |
2862 |
Drainage Area |
2860 |
Nid Storage |
55100 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 4, Slide (sluice gate) - 3, Tainter (radial) - 7 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
99 |
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.
Gulf Island
Turner Road Auburn