Rumford Falls Upper Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Rumford Falls Middle Dam Mount Zircon
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Rumford Falls Upper Dam, also known simply as Upper Dam, is a historic structure located in Rumford, Maine, along the Androscoggin River.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1918, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 40 feet and stretches 524 feet in length, serving a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation. The dam boasts a storage capacity of 2,900 acre-feet and can discharge up to 75,000 cubic feet per second through its uncontrolled spillway, making it a significant feature in the region's water resource management.
Managed by a private owner, Rumford Falls Upper Dam falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for regulation and inspection. While the dam is not state-regulated, its hazard potential is assessed as high, with a moderate risk rating. Despite its age, the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety. As a key contributor to the local hydroelectric power supply, the dam plays a crucial role in supporting sustainable energy generation in the area while also serving as a notable landmark along the Androscoggin River.
Year Completed |
1918 |
Dam Length |
524 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
Androscoggin River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
419 |
Drainage Area |
2069 |
Nid Storage |
2900 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
40 |
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.
Rumford Falls Upper Dam