Woonsocket Reservoir # 1
Key Takeaway
Woonsocket Reservoir # 1 is classified as high hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1883 and is 143 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 | 41 ft (taller than 98.6% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 240 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 145 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 105 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 10 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1883 (143 years old) |
| NID ID | RI04262 |
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
WOONSOCKET WATER DIVISION
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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High Hazard 38 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Woonsocket Reservoir # 1?
Woonsocket Reservoir # 1 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 Woonsocket Reservoir # 1?
Woonsocket Reservoir # 1 is owned by WOONSOCKET WATER DIVISION (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Woonsocket Reservoir # 1 built?
Woonsocket Reservoir # 1 was completed in 1883, making it 143 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 Woonsocket Reservoir # 1?
Woonsocket Reservoir # 1 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 Woonsocket Reservoir # 1?
Woonsocket Reservoir # 1 has a dam height of 41 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 Woonsocket Reservoir # 1 last inspected?
Woonsocket Reservoir # 1 was last inspected on April 6, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.