Moosehead - West Outlet, also known as Moosehead Lake West Dam, is a concrete dam located in The Forks, Maine along the Kennebec River.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1835, this hydroelectric dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, recreation, and water supply. With a height of 20 feet and a length of 830 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 1,080,000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 74,200 acres.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Moosehead - West Outlet has a significant hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 50 feet and is equipped with six slide (sluice gate) outlet gates. While the dam's condition assessment is not available, it undergoes regular inspections with a frequency of one inspection per year.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Moosehead - West Outlet's historical significance and multifunctional design intriguing. As a key component in the region's hydroelectric infrastructure, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources, providing recreational opportunities, and ensuring water supply reliability for the surrounding communities. Its impressive storage capacity and risk management measures highlight the importance of responsible dam operations in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1835 |
Dam Length |
830 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Kennebec River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
74200 |
Drainage Area |
1268 |
Nid Storage |
1080000 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 6 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
20 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Beach Haven campsite
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Casey's Spencer Bay Camps
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Jewett Cove
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Salmon Island
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Lily Bay State Park
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