Nichols Pond

TARKILN BROOK· Providence, Rhode Island· Built 1885· Gravity· 9 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Nichols Pond is classified as significant hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1885 and is 141 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 Length110 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage130 acre-ft
Normal Storage77 acre-ft
Surface Area24 acres
Drainage Area7 sq mi
Max Discharge560 cfs
Year Completed1885 (141 years old)
NID IDRI00309

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: October 13, 2014
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DS

Ownership

ROSSI, DAVID W. & LINDA M.

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Nichols Pond?

Nichols Pond 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 Nichols Pond?

Nichols Pond is owned by ROSSI, DAVID W. & LINDA M. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Nichols Pond built?

Nichols 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 Nichols Pond?

Nichols Pond serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Nichols Pond?

Nichols Pond 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 Nichols Pond last inspected?

Nichols Pond was last inspected on October 13, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.