Summary
The dam at Porter Lake, completed in 1940, stands at a height of 8 feet and has a hydraulic height of 5 feet. With a storage capacity of 2203 acre-feet and a surface area of 527 acres, the lake offers ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities.
Despite its recreational appeal, Porter Lake's dam is in poor condition and has a low hazard potential. The last inspection in 2008 revealed the need for maintenance and improvements to ensure the safety and structural integrity of the dam. The State of Maine regulates the dam, with MEMA overseeing permitting, inspection, and enforcement activities to mitigate any risks associated with its operation.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Porter Lake can appreciate its ecological significance within the Lemon River watershed. As efforts are made to address the dam's maintenance needs and improve its condition, there is an opportunity to enhance the resilience of this vital water resource in the face of changing environmental conditions. With proper management and stewardship, Porter Lake can continue to be a valued recreational destination while supporting the health and sustainability of its surrounding ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
145 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
Lemon |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
527 |
Hydraulic Height |
5 |
Drainage Area |
5.9 |
Nid Storage |
2203 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Carrabassett River Near North Anson
|
304cfs |
Sandy River Near Mercer
|
326cfs |
Kennebec River At Bingham
|
2530cfs |
Austin Stream At Bingham
|
55cfs |
Swift River Near Roxbury
|
89cfs |
Androscoggin River At Rumford
|
2540cfs |
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.
Porter Lake