Slatersville Reservoir Middle Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Slatersville Reservoir Middle, located in North Smithfield, Rhode Island, is an impressive masonry dam completed in 1886 that stands at a height of 26 feet and has a hydraulic height of 15 feet.


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Summary

With a storage capacity of 1330 acre-feet, this reservoir on the Branch River covers a surface area of 102 acres and serves multiple purposes, including flood control and water supply. Despite its historical significance and functional importance, recent inspections have deemed its condition as poor, with a high hazard potential due to its age and maintenance needs.

The reservoir, under private ownership, is regulated by the state of Rhode Island with required inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure public safety. The dam's spillway width of 150 feet and maximum discharge capacity of 7500 cubic feet per second indicate its ability to handle significant water flow during peak times. However, with a need for improvement in its condition assessment and emergency action plan, stakeholders must address the risks associated with this vital water resource to protect the surrounding community and environment from potential hazards.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to advocate for the preservation and maintenance of Slatersville Reservoir Middle to safeguard its structural integrity and prevent any potential disasters. With its rich history and strategic location within the Providence County landscape, this reservoir plays a vital role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. By prioritizing its upkeep, implementing necessary risk management measures, and ensuring regular inspections, we can ensure the sustainability and resilience of this essential water infrastructure for future generations.

Year Completed

1886

Dam Length

310

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

BRANCH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

102

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

94

Nid Storage

1330

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

26
       
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.