Nash's Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Nash's Lake in Calais, Maine, is a picturesque water resource managed by the local government for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam at Nash's Lake, built in 1890, is primarily made of stone and stands at a height of 30 feet, with a length of 325 feet. The lake has a storage capacity of 11,760 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 627 acres. Despite its historical significance, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 deemed it unsatisfactory, with a significant hazard potential.

With the East Branch Magurrewock Stream flowing nearby, Nash's Lake provides a tranquil setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. However, the dam's condition raises concerns about the safety and long-term sustainability of the recreational area. The dam's last inspection in September 2018 highlighted the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure public safety and preserve the natural beauty of Nash's Lake. Climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates may find interest in the conservation efforts needed to protect this vital ecosystem in Washington County, Maine.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, Nash's Lake serves as a valuable case study for the intersection of environmental conservation, recreational use, and dam safety. With the dam's condition assessed as unsatisfactory, stakeholders must work together to implement risk management measures, update emergency action plans, and prioritize the maintenance and restoration of Nash's Lake to ensure its preservation for future generations. The involvement of regulatory agencies, local government, and community members is essential in addressing the challenges faced by Nash's Lake and safeguarding its ecological and recreational value in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

325

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

East Branch Magurrewock Stream

Primary Dam Type

Stone

Surface Area

627

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

11760

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.