Eel Weir
Key Takeaway
Eel Weir is classified as high hazard in Maine. It was completed in 1879 and is 147 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 22 ft (taller than 79.7% in ME) |
| Dam Length | 1,310 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 330.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 330.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 28,771 acres |
| Drainage Area | 441 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 8,800 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1879 (147 years old) |
| NID ID | ME00070 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Dichotomy Power Maine, LLC and Presumpcot Hydro, LLC
Private
Nearby Dams
North Gorham
Cumberland, ME
High Hazard 28 ftLittle Sebago Lake
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Significant Hazard 15 ftMill Pond
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Low Hazard 10 ftDundee
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High Hazard 50 ftPanther Pond
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Low Hazard 13 ftGambo
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Low Hazard 24 ftThomas Pond
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Low Hazard 8 ftMallison Falls
Cumberland, ME
Significant Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Eel Weir?
Eel Weir is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Eel Weir?
Eel Weir is owned by Dichotomy Power Maine, LLC and Presumpcot Hydro, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Eel Weir built?
Eel Weir was completed in 1879, making it 147 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 Eel Weir?
Eel Weir serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Fish And Wildlife 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 Eel Weir?
Eel Weir has a dam height of 22 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 Eel Weir last inspected?
Eel Weir was last inspected on July 19, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.