Stafford Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cook Pond Dam Sawdy Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Stafford is a significant water supply dam located in Tiverton, Rhode Island, along the Sucker Brook.
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Summary
It stands at a height of 5 feet with a length of 200 feet, providing a storage capacity of 1500 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of water supply and is regulated by the state with permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place. Despite its importance in the region, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, indicating a need for further evaluation and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality.
While the dam's hazard potential is considered significant, with no specific spillway type mentioned, it is crucial for emergency preparedness and risk management measures to be established. The lack of an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and updated contact information raises concerns about the dam's ability to respond effectively in case of emergencies. With issues such as inspection frequency and condition assessment date not provided, there is a need for increased oversight and proactive maintenance to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety and reliability of Stafford for both water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.
As a key structure in the region, Stafford's role in water supply highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience. With the dam's location in Newport, Rhode Island, it is essential for stakeholders to prioritize maintenance, risk assessment, and emergency preparedness to safeguard the surrounding communities and environment. By addressing the current gaps in assessment and emergency planning, Stafford can continue to serve its critical function while promoting responsible water resource management practices for a more sustainable future.
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
5 |
River Or Stream |
SUCKER BROOK |
Surface Area |
486 |
Hydraulic Height |
5 |
Drainage Area |
2.2 |
Nid Storage |
1500 |
Structural Height |
5 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
5 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Stafford
Henry Street 1, Fall River