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Lake Auburn Watershed Region Emergency Action Plan

The Lake Auburn Watershed Protection Commission is charged with overseeing many of the issues associated with the safety and reliability of Lake Auburn, which serves as the water supply for a significant region of Central Maine. Lake water outflow is controlled by the East Auburn Dam, while the North Auburn Dam controls the inflow. Due to their hazard classification, both dams are required to have emergency action plans (EAP) under Maine state law.

Wright-Pierce conducted the required downstream inundation modeling of both dams and prepared two separate EAPs following Maine Emergency Management Model Plan and Guidance documents.

The plans included emergency notification flowcharts; description of possible "emergency conditions" and response actions; listing of  "responsibilities" of key response entities; and a color enhanced inundation map which identify the extent of downstream flooding in the event of a dam failure.

Wright-Pierce additionally created an annual operation and maintenance checklist to assist in ensuring that regular maintenance activities and required inspections are performed.
Project Highlights

Background

Lake Auburn is the water supply for the cities of Auburn and Lewiston. The East Auburn dam controls the water level of Lake Auburn while the North Auburn Dam controls flow into the Lake.

Challenges

  • Hazard classification for both dams
  • Dam failure would impact many downstream areas
  • Comprehensive Inspection and Operations and Maintenance Plans required for compliance

Solutions

The EAP includes inundation modeling and mapping, standardization of notification protocols, and development of an annual O & M check list