Smith + Sayles Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Smith + Sayles Reservoir, located in Glocester, Rhode Island, is a picturesque water body primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1865, the reservoir boasts a masonry dam standing at 15 feet tall and stretching across 980 feet, with a storage capacity of 1450 acre-feet and a surface area of 175 acres. The dam, situated on the Chepachet River, is regulated by the Rhode Island state agency and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Smith + Sayles Reservoir poses a significant hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. The reservoir's maintenance and risk management measures are crucial to prevent any potential disasters. With a maximum discharge capacity of 785 cubic feet per second and a normal storage capacity of 875 acre-feet, the reservoir's role in the local ecosystem and community highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the face of changing environmental conditions. Efforts to improve the dam's condition and emergency preparedness are essential to safeguard both the reservoir and the surrounding areas from any potential risks.

Year Completed

1865

Dam Length

980

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

CHEPACHET RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

175

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

8

Nid Storage

1450

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

16
       
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.