Kimball Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Kimball Reservoir, located in Scituate, Rhode Island, serves as a vital water supply source for the region.


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Summary

Built in 1924, this masonry dam stands at a height of 11 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 146 acre-feet. The reservoir covers an area of 28 acres and draws water from the Moswansicut Brook, providing essential water resources for the community.

With a significant hazard potential, Kimball Reservoir is closely regulated and inspected by the Rhode Island state authorities to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's spillway, which is 7 feet wide, helps manage water discharge during peak flow periods, with a maximum discharge capacity of 127 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the reservoir continues to fulfill its primary purpose of supplying clean water to the surrounding area, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

As a key component of the local government's water infrastructure, Kimball Reservoir plays a crucial role in meeting the region's water supply needs. While its condition assessment is currently not rated, regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures are in place to mitigate risks and ensure the reservoir's long-term reliability. With its historical significance and ongoing operational importance, Kimball Reservoir stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the New England region.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

MOSWANSICUT BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

28

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

146

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

13
       
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.