Valley Falls
Key Takeaway
Valley Falls is classified as low hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1859 and is 167 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 31 ft (taller than 94.6% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 200 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 80 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 80 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 15 acres |
| Drainage Area | 446 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 17,288 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1859 (167 years old) |
| NID ID | RI00401 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Gelardin/Bruner/Cott, Inc.
Private
Nearby Dams
Happy Hollow Pond
Providence, RI
Significant Hazard 15 ftCentral Falls
Providence, RI
Low Hazard 14 ftRobin Hollow Pond
Providence, RI
Significant Hazard 13 ftBleachery Pond
Providence, RI
High Hazard 8 ftPawtucket Upper
Providence, RI
Low Hazard 15 ftPawtucket Lower
Providence, RI
Significant Hazard 4 ftPratt
Providence, RI
Low Hazard 12 ftBarney Pond
Providence, RI
High Hazard 19 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Valley Falls?
Valley Falls is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Valley Falls?
Valley Falls is owned by Gelardin/Bruner/Cott, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Valley Falls built?
Valley Falls was completed in 1859, making it 167 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 Valley Falls?
Valley Falls 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 Valley Falls?
Valley Falls has a dam height of 31 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 Valley Falls last inspected?
Valley Falls was last inspected on July 10, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.