Upper Kezar Falls - Main Channel Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Upper Kezar Falls on the Ossipee River in Maine is a historic hydroelectric dam that has been providing renewable energy since 1860.
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Summary
This Timber Crib dam stands at a height of 8 feet and has a length of 270 feet, with a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet. The dam's maximum discharge capacity is an impressive 16,600 cubic feet per second, making it a significant contributor to the region's energy and water resource management.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Upper Kezar Falls serves as a vital part of the area's infrastructure, with a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, but it undergoes regular inspections every three years to ensure its continued safety and reliability. The dam also has an uncontrolled spillway width of 270 feet, further enhancing its capacity to manage water flow and prevent flooding in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Upper Kezar Falls represents a fascinating blend of history, technology, and environmental stewardship. As a key player in Maine's hydropower industry, this dam showcases the importance of sustainable energy generation and water management practices. With its rich heritage and ongoing commitment to safety and efficiency, Upper Kezar Falls remains a symbol of the enduring impact of hydroelectric infrastructure on local communities and ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1860 |
Dam Length |
270 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
Ossipee River |
Primary Dam Type |
Timber Crib |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
416 |
Nid Storage |
130 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Saco River At Cornish
|
1020cfs |
Saco River Near Conway
|
315cfs |
Bearcamp River At South Tamworth
|
152cfs |
Mousam River Near West Kennebunk
|
44cfs |
Presumpscot River At Westbrook
|
-999999cfs |
Cocheco River Near Rochester
|
24cfs |
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.
Upper Kezar Falls - Main Channel
Tripptown Road 28, Hiram