Harrington Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Harrington Lake, located in Piscataquis, Maine, is a hydroelectric reservoir primarily serving the purpose of fish and wildlife pond management along with hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1930, stands at a height of 16 feet and spans a length of 1905 feet, with a storage capacity of 7691 acre-feet and a surface area of 1178 acres. The dam is of concrete, earth, and gravity types, with a multi-arch core and rock foundation.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Harrington Lake poses a low hazard potential with a high risk assessment rating of 2. The dam is equipped with two slide (sluice gate) outlet gates and has not experienced any major modifications over the years. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam's emergency action plan was last revised in December 2018, meeting regulatory guidelines.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Harrington Lake to be an intriguing site for its dual purpose of supporting wildlife habitat and sustainable energy generation. The picturesque reservoir, nestled in the scenic Maine landscape, offers a unique blend of environmental conservation and renewable energy production, making it a noteworthy location for those interested in the intersection of water resources management and climate sustainability.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

1905

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Harrington Stream

Surface Area

1178

Drainage Area

40

Nid Storage

7691

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

16
       
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.