Westconnaug Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Westconnaug Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1924 and is 102 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 | 17 ft (taller than 73.9% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 322 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 174 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 220 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1924 (102 years old) |
| NID ID | RI01201 |
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
PROVIDENCE WATER SUPPLY BOARD/CITY OF PROVIDENCE
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 11 ftGorham, N. Farm Pond
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Significant Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Westconnaug Reservoir?
Westconnaug 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 Westconnaug Reservoir?
Westconnaug Reservoir is owned by PROVIDENCE WATER SUPPLY BOARD/CITY OF PROVIDENCE (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Westconnaug Reservoir built?
Westconnaug Reservoir was completed in 1924, making it 102 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 Westconnaug Reservoir?
Westconnaug Reservoir 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 Westconnaug Reservoir?
Westconnaug Reservoir has a dam height of 17 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 Westconnaug Reservoir last inspected?
Westconnaug Reservoir was last inspected on August 8, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.