Norway Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Norway Lake, located in Oxford, Maine, is a stunning water resource managed by the local government for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1930, stands at a height of 16 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 5688 acre-feet. With a surface area of 922 acres and a drainage area of 36 square miles, the lake provides ample opportunities for fishing, wildlife observation, and water-based activities.

The dam at Norway Lake, primarily constructed of stone, serves as a vital structure for maintaining the lake's water levels and ensuring a stable environment for aquatic life. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition as of the last inspection in 2015. With a spillway width of 30 feet and a hydraulic height of 12 feet, the dam is well-equipped to handle excess water and maintain the lake's normal storage capacity of 5200 acre-feet.

Water enthusiasts and climate advocates alike can appreciate Norway Lake for its role in providing a recreational oasis in the heart of Maine. As a state-regulated water source with a focus on conservation and water supply, Norway Lake stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water management and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

80

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Pennesseewassee

Primary Dam Type

Stone

Surface Area

922

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

36

Nid Storage

5688

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

16
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds