Ellis Dam
Key Takeaway
Ellis Dam is classified as low hazard in Maine. It was completed in 1850 and is 176 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 15 ft (taller than 51.7% in ME) |
| Dam Length | 235 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 625 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 525 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 93 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1850 (176 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1970 |
| NID ID | ME00246 |
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
Bessey Development Co.
Private
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Significant Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ellis Dam?
Ellis Dam 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 Ellis Dam?
Ellis Dam is owned by Bessey Development Co. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ellis Dam built?
Ellis Dam was completed in 1850, making it 176 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 Ellis Dam?
Ellis Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Ellis Dam?
Ellis Dam 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 Ellis Dam last inspected?
Ellis Dam was last inspected on July 16, 1997. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.