Barrows Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pleasant Lake Pokey
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Barrows Lake is a picturesque water body nestled in Washington, Maine, and fed by Barrows Stream.
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Summary
Managed by the state agency MEMA, this rockfill dam was completed in 1971 and stands at a height of 9 feet, with a hydraulic height of 7 feet. The lake serves as a recreational spot, offering a surface area of 0.5 square miles for visitors to enjoy various activities.
With a storage capacity of 1198 acre-feet, Barrows Lake plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Despite its low hazard potential and the absence of a condition rating, the dam undergoes regular inspections every 12 months to ensure its structural integrity. The spillway width of 12 feet adds to the safety features of the dam, providing additional assurance to nearby communities in case of emergencies.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Barrows Lake presents a unique site to appreciate the balance between human intervention and natural beauty. Its tranquil waters, coupled with the recreational opportunities it offers, make it a valuable asset in the state of Maine's water infrastructure. With proper management and maintenance, Barrows Lake continues to be a sustainable and safe water resource for all to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
60 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
Barrows Stream |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
0.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Nid Storage |
1198 |
Structural Height |
9 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
St. Croix River At Baring
|
1240cfs |
Old Stream Near Wesley
|
27cfs |
Dennys River At Dennysville
|
1010cfs |
Grand Lake Stream At Grand Lake Stream
|
113cfs |
Libby Brook Near Northfield
|
9cfs |
East Br Bear Brook Near Beddington
|
0cfs |
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.
Barrows Lake