Whiting Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Whiting, located in Washington County, Maine, is a privately owned hydroelectric dam on the Orange River.


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Summary

Built in 1927, this concrete structure stands at 21 feet tall and 150 feet long, with a storage capacity of 108 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, flood risk reduction, and recreation, making it a vital asset for the local community.

Despite its age, Whiting has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition. The dam is regulated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. While its primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, Whiting also serves as a stock pond, fish and wildlife habitat, and small recreational area for visitors to enjoy.

With its rich history and diverse uses, Whiting exemplifies the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, structures like Whiting play a crucial role in balancing environmental conservation with human needs. By maintaining and monitoring dams like Whiting, we can ensure the longevity of our water resources for future generations to come.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

Orange River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

108

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

21
       
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.