Megunticook West
Key Takeaway
Megunticook West is classified as high hazard in Maine. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 years old. Its primary use is fire protection. 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 | 14 ft (taller than 45.1% in ME) |
| Dam Length | 109 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 13.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 10.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,305 acres |
| Drainage Area | 32 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2003 |
| NID ID | ME00279 |
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
Camden, Town of
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Megunticook East
Knox, ME
High Hazard 18 ftHenderson #2
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Low Hazard 11 ftHenderson #1
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Low Hazard 11 ftSeabright
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High Hazard 23 ftColeman Pond
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Low Hazard 7 ftTolman
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Significant Hazard 20 ftGrassy Pond
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Low Hazard 11 ftFish Pond
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Low Hazard 9 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Megunticook West?
Megunticook West 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 Megunticook West?
Megunticook West is owned by Camden, Town of (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Megunticook West built?
Megunticook West was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Megunticook West?
Megunticook West serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Megunticook West?
Megunticook West has a dam height of 14 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 Megunticook West last inspected?
Megunticook West was last inspected on September 23, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.