Barney Pond
Key Takeaway
Barney Pond is classified as high hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1885 and is 141 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 19 ft (taller than 78.8% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 200 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 172 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 152 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 25 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,400 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1885 (141 years old) |
| NID ID | RI01701 |
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
LINCOLN, TOWN OF
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Bleachery Pond
Providence, RI
High Hazard 8 ftOlney Pond
Providence, RI
High Hazard 30 ftMoffett Pond
Providence, RI
High Hazard 10 ftPratt
Providence, RI
Low Hazard 12 ftButterfly Pond
Providence, RI
High Hazard 8 ftValley Falls
Providence, RI
Low Hazard 31 ftHappy Hollow Pond
Providence, RI
Significant Hazard 15 ftRobin Hollow Pond
Providence, RI
Significant Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Barney Pond?
Barney Pond 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 Barney Pond?
Barney Pond is owned by LINCOLN, TOWN OF (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Barney Pond built?
Barney Pond 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 Barney Pond?
Barney Pond serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Barney Pond?
Barney Pond has a dam height of 19 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 Barney Pond last inspected?
Barney Pond was last inspected on July 29, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.