Summary
This concrete dam, completed in 1915, stands at a height of 50 feet with a length of 1135 feet and a storage capacity of 149,600 acre-feet. The dam's normal storage capacity is 88,000 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 18,040 acres and serving a drainage area of 1,320 square miles.
With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of August 2016, Grand Falls is subject to regular inspections every six years for safety and maintenance. The dam is regulated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and has state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. Grand Falls is a significant feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts, providing both hydroelectric power and a crucial component of the Saint Croix River ecosystem. Its historical significance and engineering marvel make it a captivating site for those interested in water resource management and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1915 |
Dam Length |
1135 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
Saint Croix |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
18040 |
Hydraulic Height |
50 |
Drainage Area |
1320 |
Nid Storage |
149600 |
Structural Height |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
St. Croix River At Baring
|
1160cfs |
Grand Lake Stream At Grand Lake Stream
|
116cfs |
St. Croix River At Vanceboro
|
369cfs |
Old Stream Near Wesley
|
27cfs |
Dennys River At Dennysville
|
1010cfs |
Libby Brook Near Northfield
|
9cfs |
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.
Grand Falls