Butterfly Pond
Key Takeaway
Butterfly Pond is classified as high hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1883 and is 143 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 | 8 ft (taller than 13.5% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 26 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 20 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 855 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1883 (143 years old) |
| NID ID | RI04235 |
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
Moffett Pond
Providence, RI
High Hazard 10 ftOlney Pond
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High Hazard 30 ftBarney Pond
Providence, RI
High Hazard 19 ftPratt
Providence, RI
Low Hazard 12 ftBridlewood Pond
Providence, RI
High Hazard 7 ftBleachery Pond
Providence, RI
High Hazard 8 ftBridlewood Upper End
Providence, RI
High Hazard 5 ftAshton
Providence, RI
Low Hazard 18 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Butterfly Pond?
Butterfly 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 Butterfly Pond?
Butterfly Pond is owned by LINCOLN, TOWN OF (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Butterfly Pond built?
Butterfly Pond was completed in 1883, making it 143 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 Butterfly Pond?
Butterfly Pond 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 Butterfly Pond?
Butterfly Pond has a dam height of 8 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 Butterfly Pond last inspected?
Butterfly Pond was last inspected on June 15, 2010. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.