Arctic

South Branch Pawtuxet River· Kent, Rhode Island· Built 1885· Masonry· 28 ft tall
High Hazard Other Private

Key Takeaway

Arctic is classified as high hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1885 and is 141 years old. Its primary use is other. 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 28 ft (taller than 93.2% in RI)
Dam Length174 ft
Dam TypeMasonry
Max Storage194 acre-ft
Normal Storage173 acre-ft
Surface Area194 acres
Drainage Area73 sq mi
Max Discharge3,080 cfs
Year Completed1885 (141 years old)
NID IDRI03802

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: November 21, 2019
State Regulated: Yes

Ownership

Natco Products Corporation

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Arctic?

Arctic 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 Arctic?

Arctic is owned by Natco Products Corporation (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Arctic built?

Arctic was completed in 1885, making it 141 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 Arctic?

Arctic serves the following purposes: Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Arctic?

Arctic has a dam height of 28 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 Arctic last inspected?

Arctic was last inspected on November 21, 2019. 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.