Sisson Pond
Key Takeaway
Sisson Pond is classified as high hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 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 | 14 ft (taller than 61.3% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 1,150 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 550 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 432 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 90 acres |
| Max Discharge | 355 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | RI02702 |
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
NEWPORT, CITY OF
Local Government
Nearby Dams
St Marys Pond
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High Hazard 12 ftLawton Valley Reservoir
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High Hazard 39 ftMelville #1
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Significant HazardEaston Pond North
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High Hazard 14 ftEaston Pond South
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High Hazard 13 ftNelson Pond
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High Hazard 17 ftGardiner Pond
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High Hazard 20 ftNonquit Pond
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Significant Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sisson Pond?
Sisson 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 Sisson Pond?
Sisson Pond is owned by NEWPORT, CITY OF (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sisson Pond built?
Sisson Pond was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Sisson Pond?
Sisson Pond 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 Sisson Pond?
Sisson Pond has a dam height of 14 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 Sisson Pond last inspected?
Sisson Pond was last inspected on September 12, 2013. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.