Black Rock Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Black Rock Reservoir 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 | 11 ft (taller than 42.3% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 280 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 150 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 100 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 17 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 262 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1885 (141 years old) |
| NID ID | RI00610 |
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
HOLIDAY PRODUCTS INC.
Private
Nearby Dams
Arkwright Pond
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Low Hazard 21 ftPearce Pond
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High Hazard 10 ftHarris Pond
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Low Hazard 24 ftHope
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Significant Hazard 19 ftUpper Pond
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Significant Hazard 6 ftClarke's Pond Upper
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High Hazard 10 ftMiddle Pond
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Significant Hazard 10 ftCurran Lower Reservoir
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High Hazard 17 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Black Rock Reservoir?
Black Rock Reservoir 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 Black Rock Reservoir?
Black Rock Reservoir is owned by HOLIDAY PRODUCTS INC. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Black Rock Reservoir built?
Black Rock Reservoir 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 Black Rock Reservoir?
Black Rock Reservoir 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 Black Rock Reservoir?
Black Rock Reservoir has a dam height of 11 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 Black Rock Reservoir last inspected?
Black Rock Reservoir was last inspected on July 15, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.