Summary
Completed in 1992, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 13.5 feet and spans 162 feet in length. With a maximum storage capacity of 110,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 3,600 acres, Messalonskee Lake plays a crucial role in water resource management and energy production in the region.
Managed by a private owner, Messalonskee Lake is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, ensuring compliance with safety standards and inspection protocols. The dam's spillway, with a controlled design and a width of 104 feet, can handle a maximum discharge of 2,400 cubic feet per second. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is rated as "Very High (1)", reflecting the importance of effective risk management measures in safeguarding surrounding communities and the environment.
Messalonskee Lake's role as a hydroelectric facility highlights its significance in both water resource management and renewable energy production. With its impressive storage capacity and controlled spillway system, this dam serves as a vital infrastructure for ensuring water supply stability and supporting sustainable energy generation in the Kennebec County region of Maine.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Length |
162 |
Dam Height |
13.5 |
River Or Stream |
Messalonskee Stream |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
3600 |
Drainage Area |
177 |
Nid Storage |
110000 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Messalonskee Lake
Belgrade Avenue 18, Oakland