Locke Mills

Alder· Oxford, Maine· Built 1870· Concrete· 15 ft tall

Key Takeaway

Locke Mills is classified as significant hazard in Maine. It was completed in 1870 and is 156 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 Length200 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage7.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage3.4K acre-ft
Surface Area621 acres
Drainage Area9 sq mi
Year Completed1870 (156 years old)
Year Modified2004
NID IDME00316

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: October 11, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MEMA

Ownership

Greenwood

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Locke Mills?

Locke Mills 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 Locke Mills?

Locke Mills is owned by Greenwood (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Locke Mills built?

Locke Mills was completed in 1870, making it 156 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 Locke Mills?

Locke Mills serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Other, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Locke Mills?

Locke Mills 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 Locke Mills last inspected?

Locke Mills was last inspected on October 11, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.