Rumford Falls Upper Dam
Key Takeaway
Rumford Falls Upper Dam is classified as high hazard in Maine. It was completed in 1918 and is 108 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 | 40 ft (taller than 93.9% in ME) |
| Dam Length | 524 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 2.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 419 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2,069 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 75,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1918 (108 years old) |
| NID ID | ME00013 |
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 Falls Hydro LLC
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Rumford Falls Upper Dam?
Rumford Falls Upper Dam 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 Rumford Falls Upper Dam?
Rumford Falls Upper Dam is owned by Rumford Falls Hydro LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Rumford Falls Upper Dam built?
Rumford Falls Upper Dam was completed in 1918, making it 108 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 Rumford Falls Upper Dam?
Rumford Falls Upper Dam 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 Rumford Falls Upper Dam?
Rumford Falls Upper Dam has a dam height of 40 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 Rumford Falls Upper Dam last inspected?
Rumford Falls Upper Dam was last inspected on July 21, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.