Mount Zircon
Key Takeaway
Mount Zircon is classified as high hazard in Maine. It was completed in 1914 and is 112 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 70 ft (taller than 98.5% in ME) |
| Dam Length | 900 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 440 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 300 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 18 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1914 (112 years old) |
| NID ID | ME00244 |
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
Rumford Water District
Public Utility
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Low Hazard 11 ftStony Brook
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Low Hazard 12 ftGardner Brook
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Low Hazard 21 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Mount Zircon?
Mount Zircon 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 Mount Zircon?
Mount Zircon is owned by Rumford Water District (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Mount Zircon built?
Mount Zircon was completed in 1914, making it 112 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 Mount Zircon?
Mount Zircon serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Mount Zircon?
Mount Zircon has a dam height of 70 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 Mount Zircon last inspected?
Mount Zircon was last inspected on December 26, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.