Cathance Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Great Works Pond Meddybemps
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Cathance Lake, located in Washington, Maine, is a state-owned reservoir with a primary purpose of serving as a fish and wildlife pond.
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Summary
Built in 1980, the dam at Cathance Lake is a Timber Crib type with a height of 7 feet and a length of 1437 feet. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 23,508 acre-feet and a surface area of 2900 acres, providing ample space for recreational activities and supporting a diverse ecosystem.
Managed by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Cathance Lake is regulated and inspected by the state, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulatory standards. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is not rated, the reservoir is considered to be in good standing. Though no emergency action plan (EAP) is currently in place, the reservoir meets guidelines for risk management measures, indicating a commitment to maintaining its integrity and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities.
Cathance Lake is a valuable resource for water and climate enthusiasts, offering a tranquil setting for outdoor recreation and supporting a variety of fish and wildlife species. With its scenic beauty and diverse ecosystem, this state-owned reservoir serves as a vital habitat and recreational area in the heart of Maine's natural environment.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
1437 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
Cathance Stream |
Primary Dam Type |
Timber Crib |
Surface Area |
2900 |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Nid Storage |
23508 |
Structural Height |
7 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dennys River At Dennysville
|
1010cfs |
St. Croix River At Baring
|
1240cfs |
Old Stream Near Wesley
|
27cfs |
Libby Brook Near Northfield
|
9cfs |
Grand Lake Stream At Grand Lake Stream
|
113cfs |
Narraguagus River At Cherryfield
|
158cfs |
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.
Cathance Lake