Jamestown Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Jamestown Reservoir is classified as significant hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 9 ft (taller than 24.3% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 916 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 195 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 117 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 26 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 85 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1940 (86 years old) |
| NID ID | RI01501 |
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
JAMESTOWN, TOWN OF
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Jamestown Lower Reservoir
Newport, RI
Significant Hazard 12 ftHamilton Reservoir
Washington, RI
Significant Hazard 10 ftWertz + Viall Pond
Washington, RI
Low Hazard 6 ftCarr Pond
Washington, RI
High Hazard 9 ftShady Lea Mill
Washington, RI
High HazardEaston Pond North
Newport, RI
High Hazard 14 ftSilver Spring Lake
Washington, RI
High Hazard 12 ftEaston Pond South
Newport, RI
High Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Jamestown Reservoir?
Jamestown Reservoir 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 Jamestown Reservoir?
Jamestown Reservoir is owned by JAMESTOWN, TOWN OF (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Jamestown Reservoir built?
Jamestown Reservoir was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Jamestown Reservoir?
Jamestown Reservoir 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 Jamestown Reservoir?
Jamestown Reservoir has a dam height of 9 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 Jamestown Reservoir last inspected?
Jamestown Reservoir was last inspected on August 7, 2012. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.