Horseshoe
Key Takeaway
Horseshoe is classified as significant hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 10 ft (taller than 31.5% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 240 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 242 acres |
| Drainage Area | 22 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1920 (106 years old) |
| NID ID | RI03004 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
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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Low Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Horseshoe?
Horseshoe is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Horseshoe?
Horseshoe 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 Horseshoe built?
Horseshoe was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Horseshoe?
Horseshoe 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 Horseshoe?
Horseshoe has a dam height of 10 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 Horseshoe last inspected?
Horseshoe was last inspected on August 8, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.