Slatersville Reservoir Lower Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Slatersville Reservoir Lower, located in North Smithfield, Rhode Island, is a private dam that serves as a vital water resource in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 1886, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 328 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 208 acre-feet and a surface area of 40 acres, the reservoir plays a crucial role in providing water for various purposes in the region.

The dam, situated on Branch River, is regulated by the State of Rhode Island and is subject to regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. With a maximum discharge capacity of 8,550 cubic feet per second, the reservoir has a significant hazard potential, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and risk management practices. Despite its age, the dam has not been rated for its condition, underscoring the need for ongoing assessments to address any potential concerns.

As a key infrastructure in the water management system of Providence County, Slatersville Reservoir Lower represents a historical landmark that continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. Its significance as a water storage facility underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in Rhode Island.

Year Completed

1886

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

BRANCH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

40

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

94

Nid Storage

328

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
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.