China Lake
Key Takeaway
China Lake is classified as low hazard in Maine. It was completed in 1910 and is 116 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 12 ft (taller than 32.9% in ME) |
| Dam Length | 65 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 13.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 10.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4,098 acres |
| Drainage Area | 34 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1910 (116 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1985 |
| NID ID | ME00113 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Vassalboro
Local Government
Nearby Dams
North Vassalboro
Kennebec, ME
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Low Hazard 33 ftHydro-Kennebec (Old Canal Gatehouse)
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High Hazard 28 ftHydro-Kennebec
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Low Hazard 35 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of China Lake?
China Lake is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates China Lake?
China Lake is owned by Vassalboro (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was China Lake built?
China Lake was completed in 1910, making it 116 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 China Lake?
China Lake serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is China Lake?
China Lake has a dam height of 12 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 China Lake last inspected?
China Lake was last inspected on March 27, 2013. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.