Rice Rips
Key Takeaway
Rice Rips is classified as significant hazard in Maine. It was completed in 1908 and is 118 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 23 ft (taller than 81.1% in ME) |
| Dam Length | 220 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 1.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 87 acres |
| Drainage Area | 185 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,945 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1908 (118 years old) |
| NID ID | ME00104 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Messalonskee Stream Hydro, LLC
Private
Nearby Dams
Oakland
Kennebec, ME
Low Hazard 14 ftMessalonskee Lake
Kennebec, ME
High Hazard 14 ftUnion Gas
Kennebec, ME
Low Hazard 28 ftAutomatic
Kennebec, ME
Low Hazard 33 ftLockwood
Kennebec, ME
Low Hazard 17 ftHydro-Kennebec (Old Canal Gatehouse)
Kennebec, ME
High Hazard 28 ftHydro-Kennebec
Kennebec, ME
Low Hazard 35 ftNorth Vassalboro
Kennebec, ME
Low Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Rice Rips?
Rice Rips 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 Rice Rips?
Rice Rips is owned by Messalonskee Stream Hydro, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Rice Rips built?
Rice Rips was completed in 1908, making it 118 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 Rice Rips?
Rice Rips serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Rice Rips?
Rice Rips has a dam height of 23 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 Rice Rips last inspected?
Rice Rips was last inspected on August 31, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.