Branch Lake
Key Takeaway
Branch Lake is classified as significant hazard in Maine. It was completed in 1911 and is 115 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 15 ft (taller than 51.7% in ME) |
| Dam Length | 294 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 18.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 15.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2,703 acres |
| Drainage Area | 31 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1911 (115 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2001 |
| NID ID | ME00265 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Ellsworth
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Patten Brook
Hancock, ME
Low Hazard 9 ftGraham Lake Flood Control
Hancock, ME
High Hazard 58 ftGraham Lake Dam
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High Hazard 43 ftEllsworth
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High Hazard 62 ftGreen Lake
Hancock, ME
Low Hazard 8 ftBeech Hill Pond
Hancock, ME
Low Hazard 7 ftFosters Pond
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Low Hazard 16 ftToddy Pond
Hancock, ME
High Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Branch Lake?
Branch Lake is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Branch Lake?
Branch Lake is owned by Ellsworth (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Branch Lake built?
Branch Lake was completed in 1911, making it 115 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Branch Lake?
Branch Lake serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Recreation, Water Supply, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Branch Lake?
Branch Lake has a dam height of 15 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Branch Lake last inspected?
Branch Lake was last inspected on August 13, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.