Maranacook Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Maranacook Lake, located in Kennebec, Maine, is a picturesque body of water with a rich history dating back to 1820 when its concrete dam was completed.


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Summary

This local government-owned reservoir serves various purposes, including recreation, and boasts a maximum storage capacity of 2,370 acre-feet. With a surface area of 1,673 acres and a drainage area of 25 square miles, Maranacook Lake is a vital water resource in the region.

The dam at Maranacook Lake stands at a height of 12 feet and has a hydraulic height of 8 feet, providing low hazard potential according to the latest assessment. The lake's spillway, with a width of 20 feet, ensures proper water management in case of overflow. Although the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, regular inspections are conducted every 12 months to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Maranacook Lake's association with Mill Stream adds to its ecological significance, making it a key feature in the local landscape for both water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Despite its historical significance and recreational appeal, Maranacook Lake's risk management measures and emergency preparedness guidelines are yet to be fully documented. The absence of inundation maps and a formal emergency action plan raises questions about the lake's resilience to potential threats. As climate change continues to impact water resources, ensuring the safety and sustainability of Maranacook Lake should be a priority for local authorities and conservationists.

Year Completed

1820

Dam Length

95

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Mill Stream

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1673

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

25

Nid Storage

2370

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.