Pratt Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Pratt is a dam located in Cumberland, Rhode Island, along the Blackstone River.


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Summary

Owned by the local government, Pratt serves as a crucial structure for water resource management in the area, with a height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 393 acre-feet. Despite its importance, the dam is currently in poor condition, as indicated by a recent assessment conducted in May 2018.

While Pratt has a low hazard potential, its poor condition raises concerns about its ability to withstand potential climate-related challenges. With no state regulation or permitting in place, it is essential for local authorities to address the maintenance and rehabilitation needs of the dam to ensure its continued functionality and safety. Additionally, the dam's proximity to the Blackstone River highlights the interconnectedness of water resources and climate change impacts in the region, underscoring the importance of proactive measures to adapt to a changing environment.

As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, it is imperative to monitor and support efforts to improve the condition of structures like Pratt to enhance resilience in the face of climate variability. By investing in maintenance and modernization, stakeholders can mitigate risks associated with aging infrastructure and promote sustainable water management practices that benefit both the community and the environment. The case of Pratt serves as a reminder of the critical role that infrastructure plays in adapting to climate change and safeguarding water resources for future generations.

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

BLACKSTONE RIVER

Nid Storage

393

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.