Rawson Pond Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Rawson Pond in Cumberland, Rhode Island, is a private recreational water resource that has been serving the community since its completion in 1885.
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Summary
With a dam height of 9 feet and a storage capacity of 154 acre-feet, the pond covers an area of 33 acres and is fed by the Abbott Run river. The dam, primarily made of masonry, stands at 8 feet structurally and has a hydraulic height of 6 feet.
Despite being categorized as having a "Significant" hazard potential, Rawson Pond is currently in fair condition, as assessed in October 2017. The dam has a spillway width of 75 feet and a maximum discharge of 1720 cubic feet per second. The last inspection of the pond took place in July 2012, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. The surrounding area provides a picturesque setting for outdoor recreational activities, making Rawson Pond a popular destination for water and climate enthusiasts in the region.
While Rawson Pond has not been modified in recent years and does not have associated locks or gates, it continues to be a vital source of recreation for the local community. The pond's proximity to Providence, Rhode Island, and its historical significance as a recreational water resource make it an important site to monitor for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the preservation and maintenance of dams and water bodies in the region.
Year Completed |
1885 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
ABBOTT RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
33 |
Hydraulic Height |
6 |
Drainage Area |
19 |
Nid Storage |
154 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
9 |
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.
Rawson Pond
Falls Pond