Thompson Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Thompson Lake in Oxford, Maine is a picturesque water body with a rich history dating back to the 1800s when it was completed for hydroelectric purposes.


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Summary

With a dam height of 12.5 feet and a storage capacity of over 29,000 acre-feet, the lake serves various functions including navigation, recreation, and water supply. Its low hazard potential and not rated condition assessment make it a relatively safe and stable water resource.

Managed by the Maine Emergency Management Agency, Thompson Lake is state-regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The lake covers a surface area of 4,224 acres with a drainage area of 46 square miles, making it a significant water body in the region. Despite its age, the dam is well-maintained with the last inspection conducted in 2009, highlighting the commitment to ensuring the lake's integrity and safety for both residents and visitors.

Thompson Lake's tranquil waters provide a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and climate advocates alike. With its strategic location and diverse uses, the lake continues to play a vital role in supporting the local ecosystem and community. From its historic origins to its present-day management, Thompson Lake stands as a symbol of sustainable water resource management and environmental stewardship in the heart of Maine.

Year Completed

1800

Dam Length

35

Dam Height

12.5

River Or Stream

Thompson Lake

Primary Dam Type

Stone

Surface Area

4224

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

46

Nid Storage

29980

Structural Height

12.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.