Olney Pond
Key Takeaway
Olney Pond is classified as high hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1883 and is 143 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 | 30 ft (taller than 94.1% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 220 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 1.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 133 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 88 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1883 (143 years old) |
| NID ID | RI01702 |
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
RI DEM PARKS & RECREATION
State Government
Nearby Dams
Moffett Pond
Providence, RI
High Hazard 10 ftBarney Pond
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High Hazard 19 ftButterfly Pond
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High Hazard 8 ftBleachery Pond
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High Hazard 8 ftPratt
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Low Hazard 12 ftLouisquisset Flood Control
Providence, RI
High HazardBridlewood Pond
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High Hazard 7 ftValley Falls
Providence, RI
Low Hazard 31 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Olney Pond?
Olney 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 Olney Pond?
Olney Pond is owned by RI DEM PARKS & RECREATION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Olney Pond built?
Olney Pond was completed in 1883, making it 143 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 Olney Pond?
Olney 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 Olney Pond?
Olney Pond has a dam height of 30 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 Olney Pond last inspected?
Olney Pond was last inspected on August 18, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.