List of dams and reservoirs in Maine facts for kids
Dams are like big walls built across rivers. They hold back water, creating a large lake called a reservoir. These reservoirs can store water for drinking, help control floods, or create electricity. Maine has many dams and reservoirs, which are important for its communities and environment.
Important Dams and Lakes in Maine
A "major dam" is usually very tall, like a five-story building. It also holds a lot of water, enough to fill thousands of swimming pools! These large dams are important for managing water and creating power.
Here are some of the important dams and the lakes (reservoirs) they create in Maine:
- Bonny Eagle Dam: This dam is on the Saco River. It helps manage the river's flow.
- Harris Station Dam: This dam creates Indian Pond. It is used to make electricity.
- Howland Dam: Located in Howland, this dam is part of the local river system.
- Kennebunk Dam: This dam is on the Mousam River near Kennebunk.
- Lake Auburn: This is a natural lake that also serves as a reservoir, providing drinking water.
- Long Falls Dam: This dam created Flagstaff Lake, one of Maine's largest lakes. It is also used for power.
- Milford Dam: This dam is on the Penobscot River near Milford.
- Milltown Dam: This dam is on the Saint Croix River, which forms part of the border with Canada. It helps generate power.
- Orono Dam: Located in Orono, this dam is also on the Penobscot River.
- Ripogenus Dam: This is a hydroelectric dam at the start of the west branch of the Penobscot River. It makes electricity.
- Skelton Dam: This dam is also on the Saco River. It helps manage water flow.
- Stillwater Dam: This dam is on the Stillwater River, a branch of the Penobscot River.
- West Enfield Dam: Located in West Enfield, this dam is another part of the Penobscot River system.
- Wyman Dam: This dam creates Wyman Lake. It is used to produce electricity.
Dams That Are No Longer Here
Sometimes, dams are removed from rivers. This can happen to help fish travel freely up and down the river. It also helps the river return to its natural state. Maine has removed a few dams to improve river health.
Here are some dams that have been removed in Maine:
- Edwards Dam: This dam was on the Kennebec River. It was removed in 1999. Its removal was a big step for river restoration.
- Great Works Dam: This dam was removed in 2012. Its removal helped fish like salmon move more easily.
- Veazie Dam: This dam was removed in 2013, also helping fish migration on the Penobscot River.
