Kingfield Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pennell Pond Dirigo Dowel
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Kingfield, located in Franklin County, Maine, is home to a concrete dam built in 1811 on the Carrabassett River for hydroelectric purposes.
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Summary
With a dam height of 14 feet and a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet, the Kingfield dam serves multiple functions including fire protection, stock maintenance, flood risk reduction, and hydroelectric power generation. The dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition.
Despite being last inspected in 1999, with an inspection frequency of 12 years, the Kingfield dam remains under state regulation and jurisdiction with oversight from the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA). The dam's location on the Carrabassett River contributes to its role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the area. The surrounding community benefits from the dam's multifunctional capabilities and historical significance as a key infrastructure for water management in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Kingfield dam provides a fascinating case study of how early 19th-century engineering continues to play a vital role in modern water management practices. The dam's longevity and ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions highlight the importance of sustainable water infrastructure for communities like Kingfield. With its diverse purposes and ongoing regulatory oversight, the Kingfield dam stands as a testament to the intersection of history, hydrology, and community resilience in the face of climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1811 |
Dam Length |
259 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
Carrabassett |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
108 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
164 |
Nid Storage |
78 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Carrabassett River Near North Anson
|
304cfs |
Kennebec River At Bingham
|
2680cfs |
Austin Stream At Bingham
|
55cfs |
Dead River Near Dead River
|
786cfs |
Sandy River Near Mercer
|
326cfs |
Spencer Stream At Mouth
|
104cfs |
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.
Kingfield