Nelson Pond
Key Takeaway
Nelson Pond is classified as high hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1885 and is 141 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 | 17 ft (taller than 73.9% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 1,180 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 308 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 180 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 33 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 220 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1885 (141 years old) |
| NID ID | RI01901 |
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
NEWPORT, CITY OF
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Gardiner Pond
Newport, RI
High Hazard 20 ftEaston Pond South
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High Hazard 13 ftEaston Pond North
Newport, RI
High Hazard 14 ftSt Marys Pond
Newport, RI
High Hazard 12 ftSisson Pond
Newport, RI
High Hazard 14 ftLawton Valley Reservoir
Newport, RI
High Hazard 39 ftWatson, Harold E, Reservoir
Newport, RI
High Hazard 34 ftNonquit Pond
Newport, RI
Significant Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Nelson Pond?
Nelson 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 Nelson Pond?
Nelson Pond is owned by NEWPORT, CITY OF (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Nelson Pond built?
Nelson Pond was completed in 1885, making it 141 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 Nelson Pond?
Nelson Pond 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 Nelson Pond?
Nelson Pond has a dam height of 17 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 Nelson Pond last inspected?
Nelson Pond was last inspected on August 28, 2013. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.