New Mills
Key Takeaway
New Mills is classified as high hazard in Maine. It was completed in 1885 and is 141 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 | 200 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 4.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 856 acres |
| Drainage Area | 217 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1885 (141 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1999 |
| NID ID | ME00095 |
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
Gardiner;Litchfield;Richmond
Local Government
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Low Hazard 11 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of New Mills?
New Mills 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 New Mills?
New Mills is owned by Gardiner;Litchfield;Richmond (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was New Mills built?
New Mills was completed in 1885, making it 141 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 New Mills?
New Mills serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, 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 New Mills?
New Mills 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 New Mills last inspected?
New Mills was last inspected on October 25, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.