Sprague Upper Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Sprague Upper Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1885 and is 141 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 | 25 ft (taller than 90.1% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 252 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 368 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 281 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 23 acres |
| Max Discharge | 350 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1885 (141 years old) |
| NID ID | RI03105 |
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
YMCA OF GREATER PROVIDENCE
Private
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High Hazard 20 ftMountaindale Reservoir
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Low Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sprague Upper Reservoir?
Sprague Upper 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 Sprague Upper Reservoir?
Sprague Upper Reservoir is owned by YMCA OF GREATER PROVIDENCE (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sprague Upper Reservoir built?
Sprague Upper Reservoir was completed in 1885, making it 141 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 Sprague Upper Reservoir?
Sprague Upper 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 Sprague Upper Reservoir?
Sprague Upper Reservoir has a dam height of 25 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 Sprague Upper Reservoir last inspected?
Sprague Upper Reservoir was last inspected on May 17, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.