Pawtucket Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Pawtucket Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1928 and is 98 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 | 33 ft (taller than 95.5% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 2,900 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 5.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 5.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 255 acres |
| Drainage Area | 18 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1928 (98 years old) |
| NID ID | RI00803 |
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
PAWTUCKET WATER SUPPLY BOARD
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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High Hazard 10 ftWetherell Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 7 ftAshton
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Low Hazard 18 ftLake Como Dam
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Significant Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Pawtucket Reservoir?
Pawtucket 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 Pawtucket Reservoir?
Pawtucket Reservoir is owned by PAWTUCKET WATER SUPPLY BOARD (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Pawtucket Reservoir built?
Pawtucket Reservoir was completed in 1928, making it 98 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 Pawtucket Reservoir?
Pawtucket 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 Pawtucket Reservoir?
Pawtucket Reservoir has a dam height of 33 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 Pawtucket Reservoir last inspected?
Pawtucket Reservoir was last inspected on August 20, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.