Run Around Reservoir Report
Nearby: West Enfield Howland
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Run Around is a hydroelectric dam located in Howland, Maine, along Merrill Brook.
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Summary
Built in 1894, this Earth dam stands at 15 feet tall and stretches 200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 11,480 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 2,000 cubic feet per second. The dam's spillway, controlled with a width of 19 feet, helps manage water flow in a controlled manner.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Run Around serves as a crucial structure for hydroelectric purposes, contributing to the renewable energy sector. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating of 1, indicating its sturdy construction and maintenance. The dam's three slide gates enable efficient water release, and regular inspections ensure its safety and functionality.
With its scenic location and significant role in water resource management and renewable energy production, Run Around is a testament to sustainable infrastructure development. As a key player in Maine's energy landscape, this dam underscores the importance of responsible water resource management and the potential for hydroelectric power to contribute to climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1894 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
Merrill Brook |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1125 |
Drainage Area |
5218 |
Nid Storage |
11480 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Run Around
West Broadway 735, Lincoln