Royal Mills
Key Takeaway
Royal Mills is classified as high hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1861 and is 165 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 21 ft (taller than 84.7% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 130 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Normal Storage | 15 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4 acres |
| Drainage Area | 73 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,100 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1861 (165 years old) |
| NID ID | RI04367 |
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
JG Royal Mill, LLC & JJH Royal Mill, LLC
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Royal Mills?
Royal Mills 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 Royal Mills?
Royal Mills is owned by JG Royal Mill, LLC & JJH Royal Mill, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Royal Mills built?
Royal Mills was completed in 1861, making it 165 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 Royal Mills?
Royal Mills serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Royal Mills?
Royal Mills has a dam height of 21 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 Royal Mills last inspected?
Royal Mills was last inspected on September 13, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.