Forestdale Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Forestdale Pond in Rhode Island is a stunning water resource nestled in Providence County, attracting climate enthusiasts and water resource aficionados alike.


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Summary

This picturesque pond, also known as RI02504, was completed in 1883 and boasts a gravity, masonry, and rockfill dam type with a structural height of 19 feet. With a storage capacity of 280 acre-feet and a surface area of 17 acres, Forestdale Pond serves as a vital water source for the surrounding area. Despite its historical significance, the pond is classified as having a high hazard potential and a poor condition assessment.

Located in North Smithfield, Forestdale Pond holds a critical role in regulating the Branch River's flow, with a drainage area of 96 square miles. The dam's spillway width of 92 feet and the maximum discharge capacity of 5000 cubic feet per second highlight the pond's importance in managing water levels and preventing potential flooding. However, with a condition assessment indicating poor maintenance and a high hazard potential, there is a pressing need for comprehensive risk management measures and regular inspections to ensure the pond's structural integrity and safety for the local community.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, Forestdale Pond stands as a significant landmark in Rhode Island's water management infrastructure. Its rich history, combined with its critical role in flood control and water storage, underscores the importance of proactive maintenance and risk mitigation strategies to safeguard this natural resource for future generations. The pond's high hazard potential and poor condition assessment serve as a reminder of the urgent need for investment in its upkeep and the implementation of effective emergency action plans to protect both the environment and the local community.

Year Completed

1883

Dam Length

109

Dam Height

19.5

River Or Stream

BRANCH RIVER

Surface Area

17

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

96

Nid Storage

280

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

High

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.