Abenaki Reservoir Report
Nearby: Madison Paper Corp Log Anson
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Abenaki, also known as Lower Dam, is a private concrete structure located on the Kennebec River in Somerset, Maine.
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Summary
Built in 1922, this hydroelectric dam stands at 25 feet high and spans 1000 feet, with a storage capacity of 520 acre-feet. Its primary purposes include fire protection, stock management, and hydroelectric power generation, making it a vital resource for the local community.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Abenaki has a controlled spillway with a width of 784 feet and a maximum discharge of 126,000 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a very high risk level, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and emergency preparedness. While its condition assessment is not available, the dam's emergency action plan was last revised in December 2020, aligning with safety guidelines to mitigate potential risks.
With its scenic location and significant role in water resource management, Abenaki serves as a key infrastructure for both energy production and environmental protection along the Kennebec River. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the proper maintenance and monitoring of dams like Abenaki are crucial for ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water systems in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1922 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
Kennebec River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
32 |
Drainage Area |
3148 |
Nid Storage |
520 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Carrabassett River Near North Anson
|
304cfs |
Sandy River Near Mercer
|
326cfs |
Kennebec River At Bingham
|
1990cfs |
Austin Stream At Bingham
|
55cfs |
Kennebec River At North Sidney
|
2360cfs |
Dead River Near Dead River
|
791cfs |
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.
Abenaki