Wilson Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wilson Reservoir, located in Burrillville, Rhode Island, is a picturesque body of water nestled along Clear River.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1866, stands at a height of 21 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of 840 acre-feet and a surface area of 114 acres, the reservoir offers ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities.

Despite its age, Wilson Reservoir is closely regulated and inspected by the state, with regular maintenance ensuring its structural integrity and safety. The dam has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of October 2017. The spillway, with a width of 25 feet, is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 395 cubic feet per second, mitigating flood risks and safeguarding the surrounding area.

Located in a scenic spot within Providence County, Wilson Reservoir is not only a valuable resource for recreation but also plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts. Its historical significance and ongoing maintenance make it a vital component of the local ecosystem, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike to marvel at its engineering and natural beauty.

Year Completed

1866

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

CLEAR RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

114

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

13

Nid Storage

840

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

21
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.