Gainer Memorial
Key Takeaway
Gainer Memorial is classified as high hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1926 and is 100 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 109 ft (taller than 99.5% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 3,200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 164.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 114.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3,390 acres |
| Drainage Area | 93 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 53,520 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1926 (100 years old) |
| NID ID | RI03001 |
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
PROVIDENCE WATER SUPPLY BOARD/CITY OF PROVIDENCE
Local Government
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High Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Gainer Memorial?
Gainer Memorial 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 Gainer Memorial?
Gainer Memorial is owned by PROVIDENCE WATER SUPPLY BOARD/CITY OF PROVIDENCE (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Gainer Memorial built?
Gainer Memorial was completed in 1926, making it 100 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 Gainer Memorial?
Gainer Memorial serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Gainer Memorial?
Gainer Memorial has a dam height of 109 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 Gainer Memorial last inspected?
Gainer Memorial was last inspected on August 8, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.