Summary
Situated on the Passagassawak River, this dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 125 feet, providing a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Holmes Mill remains a vital structure for water resource management in the area.
Owned privately, Holmes Mill is state-regulated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) with permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place. The dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, or small fish pond, in addition to its main function of hydroelectric power generation. Despite its age, Holmes Mill continues to play a significant role in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region.
With its picturesque location and historical significance, Holmes Mill stands as a testament to the enduring impact of water resource infrastructure on the environment and local communities. As climate change threatens water resources worldwide, structures like Holmes Mill serve as critical components of sustainable water management practices, highlighting the importance of preserving and maintaining these vital assets for future generations.
Year Completed |
1870 |
Dam Length |
125 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
Passagassawak River |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Structural Height |
15 |
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.
Holmes Mill