West Grand Lake

West Branch St. Croix River· Washington, Maine· Built 1836· Timber Crib· 13 ft tall
Significant Hazard Hydroelectric Private

Key Takeaway

West Grand Lake is classified as significant hazard in Maine. It was completed in 1836 and is 190 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 13 ft (taller than 41.6% in ME)
Dam Length487 ft
Dam TypeTimber Crib
Max Storage160.9K acre-ft
Normal Storage160.9K acre-ft
Surface Area23,500 acres
Drainage Area162 sq mi
Max Discharge5,450 cfs
Year Completed1836 (190 years old)
NID IDME00223

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 22, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Woodland Pulp, LLC

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of West Grand Lake?

West Grand Lake 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 West Grand Lake?

West Grand Lake is owned by Woodland Pulp, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was West Grand Lake built?

West Grand Lake was completed in 1836, making it 190 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 West Grand Lake?

West Grand Lake 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 West Grand Lake?

West Grand Lake has a dam height of 13 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 West Grand Lake last inspected?

West Grand Lake was last inspected on September 22, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.