Lawton Valley Reservoir Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sisson Pond St Marys Pond
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Lawton Valley Reservoir in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, is a vital water supply reservoir that was completed in 1943.
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Summary
With a capacity of 1,764 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,260 acres, the reservoir plays a significant role in meeting the water needs of the local community. The dam, standing at a height of 39 feet, helps regulate the flow of Lawton Valley Brook and provides a reliable source of water for the region.
However, despite its importance, the reservoir is facing challenges in terms of its condition assessment, which has been rated as poor. With a high hazard potential, the reservoir's emergency action plan is yet to be prepared, raising concerns about its readiness to handle any unforeseen events. The last inspection in 2013 highlighted the need for improvements and the implementation of risk management measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of Lawton Valley Reservoir for both water supply and environmental purposes.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, there is a call to action to support the maintenance and rehabilitation efforts of Lawton Valley Reservoir to safeguard this critical water source. With its historical significance and ecological importance, it is essential to prioritize the reservoir's upkeep and invest in necessary upgrades to prevent any potential risks and ensure a sustainable water supply for the future. By advocating for improved infrastructure and emergency preparedness measures, we can help protect Lawton Valley Reservoir and promote responsible water resource management in the region.
Year Completed |
1943 |
Dam Length |
2630 |
Dam Height |
39 |
River Or Stream |
LAWTON VALLEY BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1260 |
Hydraulic Height |
33 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
1764 |
Structural Height |
48 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
48 |
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.
Lawton Valley Reservoir
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