Slatersville Reservoir Upper Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in North Smithfield, Rhode Island, the Slatersville Reservoir Upper is a private dam structure that was completed in 1886.


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Summary

This masonry dam boasts a height of 27 feet and a structural height of 36 feet, with a storage capacity of 3,640 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 147 acres and has a drainage area of 89 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 12,118 cubic feet per second.

Despite its historical significance, the Slatersville Reservoir Upper is currently classified as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The last inspection in 2017 revealed the need for improvement, with an inspection frequency of every 2 years. With its proximity to the Branch River and its critical role in water resource management, stakeholders are urged to prioritize maintenance and risk management measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital infrastructure. Climate and water resource enthusiasts should closely monitor any updates regarding the rehabilitation and management of the Slatersville Reservoir Upper to safeguard its long-term functionality and environmental impact.

Year Completed

1886

Dam Length

256

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

BRANCH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

147

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

89

Nid Storage

3640

Structural Height

36

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

36
       
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.