Oakland Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Oakland Pond is a historic gravity dam located in Burrillville, Rhode Island, on the Branch River.


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Summary

Built in 1850, this private water resource boasts a height of 11 feet and a storage capacity of 196 acre-feet, making it a vital component of the region's water management system. The dam stretches 330 feet in length, covering a surface area of 5 acres and serving a drainage area of 68 square miles.

Despite its significant role in water storage and management, Oakland Pond currently faces challenges with a poor condition assessment as of October 2017. With a low hazard potential, the dam's condition raises concerns about its long-term structural integrity and ability to withstand potential climate-related events. The dam's inspection frequency and emergency preparedness measures are not clearly defined, highlighting the need for proactive risk management strategies to ensure the safety and functionality of this essential water resource for the community.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor Oakland Pond's condition and advocate for improved maintenance practices, the dam's historical significance and environmental impact underscore the importance of proactive management to safeguard its integrity and ensure sustainable water management for the region. Efforts to address the dam's poor condition assessment, enhance emergency preparedness measures, and implement risk management strategies will be crucial in preserving Oakland Pond as a valuable water resource for generations to come.

Year Completed

1850

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

BRANCH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

68

Nid Storage

196

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.