Albion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 29, 2025

Albion, located in Lincoln, Rhode Island, is a masonry dam constructed in 1850 along the Blackstone River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Standing at a height of 18 feet with a hydraulic height of 12 feet, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management for the area. With a storage capacity of 347 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 138,000 cubic feet per second, Albion serves as a key component in regulating water flow and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities.

Despite its historical significance, Albion's condition assessment is rated as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and potential improvements. The dam has a low hazard potential, but its current state raises concerns about its long-term stability and effectiveness. A recent inspection in October 2017 highlighted the need for further evaluation and potentially the development of an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) to address any potential risks or hazards associated with the dam.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data surrounding Albion presents an opportunity for further exploration and engagement with dam infrastructure in Rhode Island. By understanding the role of dams like Albion in water management and the potential risks they may pose, enthusiasts can advocate for sustainable practices and policies to ensure the resilience of our water resources in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1850

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

BLACKSTONE RIVER

Surface Area

18

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

411

Nid Storage

347

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Low

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.