Woonsocket Falls Dam, located in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, is a concrete gravity dam on the Blackstone River, completed in 1960 by the US Army Corps of Engineers for flood risk reduction and hydroelectric purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Standing at a height of 21 feet with a hydraulic height of 24 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 33,000 cubic feet per second. The spillway, with a width of 128 feet, helps control water flow during high flow events.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a very high flood risk, with the USACE implementing various risk management measures to mitigate potential dangers. These measures include continuous monitoring of the dam's condition, prioritizing activities to reduce risks, and collaborating with local emergency managers to develop emergency action plans and raise public awareness. Regular maintenance and repairs are also conducted to ensure the dam's structural integrity and functionality. With its importance in flood risk reduction and water management, Woonsocket Falls Dam plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and resilience of the surrounding communities.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
268 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
Blackstone |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
32 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
369 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 4 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |