Nelson Pond Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gardiner Pond Easton Pond South
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Nelson Pond, also known as Paradise Pond, is a picturesque water body located in Middletown, Rhode Island.
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Summary
Managed by the local government, this dam was completed in 1885 and serves primarily as a water supply source. With a dam height of 17 feet and a storage capacity of 308 acre-feet, Nelson Pond covers a surface area of 33 acres and has a drainage area of 1 square mile, making it a vital resource for the surrounding community.
Despite its historical significance, Nelson Pond poses a high hazard potential and has been rated as being in poor condition. The dam's inspection frequency is set at every 2 years, with the last assessment conducted in October 2017. The spillway width is 50 feet, and the maximum discharge capacity reaches 220 cubic feet per second, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety of the structure and the surrounding area.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the rich history and importance of Nelson Pond in providing water supply. The dam's structural features, including its rockfill construction type and 1180 feet length, showcase the engineering marvel that has stood the test of time since the 19th century. As discussions around climate change and water resource management continue to evolve, Nelson Pond serves as a reminder of the critical role that such infrastructure plays in sustaining communities and ecosystems in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1885 |
Dam Length |
1180 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
PARADISE BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
33 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
308 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Nelson Pond
Third Beach