Summary
Light Co. is a state-owned facility that primarily focuses on flood risk reduction along the Orange River Flowage. Built in 1900, the concrete dam stands at a height of 14 feet with a hydraulic height of 9 feet, serving as a vital structure for the region. With a normal storage capacity of 1507 acre-feet and a surface area of 588 acres, the dam plays a key role in managing water resources in the area.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition remains unrated as of the last inspection in 1979. However, the facility is regulated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its integrity and safety. With a spillway width of 40 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 1884 acre-feet, the dam contributes to various purposes such as fish and wildlife pond creation, flood risk reduction, and recreation for the local community.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the Lubec Water & Elec. Light Co. stands as a crucial asset in managing flood risks and supporting the ecosystem in the region. With the support of state agencies and ongoing monitoring, the facility remains an essential component in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential water-related disasters. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like the Lubec dam highlights the intersection of environmental protection, infrastructure resilience, and community safety in the face of changing climatic conditions.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
75 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
Orange River Flowage |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
588 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Nid Storage |
1884 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dennys River At Dennysville
|
1010cfs |
St. Croix River At Baring
|
2040cfs |
Libby Brook Near Northfield
|
12cfs |
Old Stream Near Wesley
|
66cfs |
Narraguagus River At Cherryfield
|
534cfs |
Grand Lake Stream At Grand Lake Stream
|
130cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Cobscook Bay State Park Campground
|
||
Cobscook Bay State Park
|
||
Reversing Falls Park
|
Lubec Water & Elec. Light Co.