Curran Upper Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Curran Upper Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1902 and is 124 years old. Its primary use is fish and wildlife pond. 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 | 27 ft (taller than 91.4% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 1,200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 500 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 390 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 32 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 923 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1902 (124 years old) |
| NID ID | RI00702 |
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
RI DEM PARKS & RECREATION
State Government
Nearby Dams
Curran Lower Reservoir
Providence, RI
High Hazard 17 ftClarke's Pond Upper
Providence, RI
High Hazard 10 ftArkwright Pond
Kent, RI
Low Hazard 21 ftHope
Providence, RI
Significant Hazard 19 ftHarris Pond
Kent, RI
Low Hazard 24 ftPearce Pond
Kent, RI
High Hazard 10 ftBlack Rock Reservoir
Kent, RI
High Hazard 11 ftGainer Memorial
Providence, RI
High Hazard 109 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Curran Upper Reservoir?
Curran Upper 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 Curran Upper Reservoir?
Curran Upper Reservoir is owned by RI DEM PARKS & RECREATION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Curran Upper Reservoir built?
Curran Upper Reservoir was completed in 1902, making it 124 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 Curran Upper Reservoir?
Curran Upper Reservoir serves the following purposes: Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Curran Upper Reservoir?
Curran Upper Reservoir has a dam height of 27 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.