West Grand Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Grand Lake Stream Farm Cove
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
West Grand Lake, also known as Grand Lake Stream Dam, is a private hydroelectric structure located in Grand Lake Stream, Maine.
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Summary
Built in 1836, this timber crib dam stands at a height of 13.3 feet and spans 487 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 160,900 acre-feet and a surface area of 23,500 acres. The dam serves the primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, utilizing a controlled spillway with a width of 40 feet.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, West Grand Lake has a significant hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam is inspected annually, with the last inspection conducted in September 2020. The dam's outlet gates consist of five slide (sluice) gates, and it is situated on the West Branch St. Croix River within the Washington County of Maine.
As a pivotal structure in the region's water resource management, West Grand Lake plays a crucial role in regulating water flow, storing water for hydroelectric power generation, and providing recreational opportunities for the local community. Its historical significance, engineering design, and operational aspects make it a fascinating site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and study.
Year Completed |
1836 |
Dam Length |
487 |
Dam Height |
13.3 |
River Or Stream |
West Branch St. Croix River |
Primary Dam Type |
Timber Crib |
Surface Area |
23500 |
Drainage Area |
162 |
Nid Storage |
160900 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 5 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
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.
West Grand Lake