Cunliff Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Cunliff Pond, also known as Elm Lake in Roger Williams Park, is a picturesque water resource located in Providence, Rhode Island.


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Summary

Managed by the local government, this dam structure was completed in 1885 and serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a dam height of 12 feet and a storage capacity of 168 acre-feet, Cunliff Pond offers a serene environment for visitors to enjoy various water activities.

The pond is fed by Mashapaug Brook and covers a surface area of 35 acres within a drainage area of 5 square miles. With a spillway width of 8 feet and a maximum discharge of 80 cubic feet per second, the dam is designed to manage significant hazard potential. Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, Cunliff Pond remains a vital water source for the local community, offering a tranquil oasis for residents and visitors to appreciate and explore.

While the last inspection was conducted in 2013, the pond continues to be maintained and inspected regularly, with a designated inspection frequency of 5 years. Its strategic location and historical significance make Cunliff Pond a valuable asset in the region, providing both recreational opportunities and contributing to the overall water resource management in Providence.

Year Completed

1885

Dam Length

20

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

MASHAPAUG BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

35

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

5

Nid Storage

168

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

12
       
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.