Oak Swamp Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Oak Swamp Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1865 and is 161 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 7 ft (taller than 8.1% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 1,310 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 720 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 556 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 107 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 540 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1865 (161 years old) |
| NID ID | RI01601 |
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
JOHNSTON, TOWN OF
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Oak Swamp Reservoir?
Oak Swamp Reservoir 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 Oak Swamp Reservoir?
Oak Swamp Reservoir is owned by JOHNSTON, TOWN OF (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Oak Swamp Reservoir built?
Oak Swamp Reservoir was completed in 1865, making it 161 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 Oak Swamp Reservoir?
Oak Swamp Reservoir 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 Oak Swamp Reservoir?
Oak Swamp Reservoir has a dam height of 7 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 Oak Swamp Reservoir last inspected?
Oak Swamp Reservoir was last inspected on June 12, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.