Wenscott Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Wenscott Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1865 and is 161 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 | 10 ft (taller than 31.5% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 320 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 380 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 280 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 78 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,067 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1865 (161 years old) |
| NID ID | RI02401 |
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
NORTH PROVIDENCE, TOWN OF
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Louisquisset Flood Control
Providence, RI
High HazardAllendale Pond
Providence, RI
Low Hazard 15 ftGreystone
Providence, RI
Low Hazard 7 ftLymansville
Providence, RI
Low Hazard 13 ftCaesarville Pond
Providence, RI
Significant Hazard 6 ftWanskuck Pond
Providence, RI
Low Hazard 14 ftManton Mill Pond
Providence, RI
Low Hazard 10 ftBridlewood Pond
Providence, RI
High Hazard 7 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Wenscott Reservoir?
Wenscott 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 Wenscott Reservoir?
Wenscott Reservoir is owned by NORTH PROVIDENCE, TOWN OF (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wenscott Reservoir built?
Wenscott Reservoir was completed in 1865, making it 161 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 Wenscott Reservoir?
Wenscott 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 Wenscott Reservoir?
Wenscott Reservoir has a dam height of 10 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 Wenscott Reservoir last inspected?
Wenscott Reservoir was last inspected on November 24, 2009. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.