Summary
With a height of 17 feet and a concrete structure, Rangeley serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock and small fish pond, fish and wildlife pond, flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. The dam has a storage capacity of 39,194 acre-feet and a surface area of 6,000 acres, with a drainage area of 99 square miles.
Managed by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Rangeley is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. Despite its low hazard potential and not being rated for condition assessment, the dam's Emergency Action Plan was last revised in August 2018. In the event of an emergency, the dam has a spillway width of 75 feet to safely release excess water. Rangeley's location on the Rangeley River offers a picturesque backdrop for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to explore the intersection of hydroelectric power and environmental conservation in the New England District.
Jared F. Golden, the Democratic representative for Maine's 2nd Congressional District, oversees Rangeley's operations and maintenance. While the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks detailed risk assessments, its role in providing clean energy and supporting local ecosystems underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management. From its historic significance as one of Maine's early hydroelectric facilities to its ongoing contributions to flood control and recreational activities, Rangeley represents a blend of traditional infrastructure and modern environmental stewardship for the benefit of the community and the surrounding natural environment.
Year Completed |
1836 |
Dam Length |
280 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
Rangeley |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
6000 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
99 |
Nid Storage |
39194 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Diamond River Near Wentworth Location
|
126cfs |
Androscoggin River At Errol
|
1500cfs |
Swift River Near Roxbury
|
89cfs |
Ellis River At South Andover
|
74cfs |
Androscoggin River At Rumford
|
2230cfs |
Dead River Near Dead River
|
786cfs |
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.
Rangeley