Kesslen Reservoir Report
Nearby: Twine Mill Dane Perkins
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Kesslen is a hydroelectric dam located on the Mousam River in Kennebunk, Maine, operated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
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Summary
Built in 1954, this concrete dam stands at 18 feet in height and has a length of 140 feet, with a storage capacity of 224 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and recreation, with a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating.
Despite being a federally regulated structure, Kesslen does not fall under state jurisdiction or permitting requirements. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 114 feet and two slide gates for outlet control. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam is inspected every three years, with the last inspection conducted in May 2018. Emergency action plans and risk management measures are not detailed, suggesting room for improvement in emergency preparedness.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kesslen presents an intriguing case study of a mid-century hydroelectric facility with potential for environmental and recreational benefits. With its location on the Mousam River and close proximity to the New England District, the dam's operation and maintenance could offer valuable insights into sustainable water management practices and risk mitigation strategies. Further research and analysis of Kesslen's impact on the local ecosystem and community resilience could provide valuable lessons for future water resource development projects.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
140 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
Mousam River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
20 |
Drainage Area |
125 |
Nid Storage |
224 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mousam River Near West Kennebunk
|
44cfs |
Cocheco River Near Rochester
|
24cfs |
Isinglass R At Rochester Neck Rd
|
25cfs |
Presumpscot River At Westbrook
|
-999999cfs |
Oyster River Near Durham
|
3cfs |
Lamprey River Near Newmarket
|
42cfs |
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.
Kesslen
Pier Road 81, Kennebunkport