Horseshoe Falls Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Horseshoe Falls, also known as Shannock, is a private dam located in Richmond, Rhode Island, along the Pawcatuck River.


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Summary

Built in 1885, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a hydraulic height of 10 feet. It serves a primary purpose of "Other" and has a storage capacity of 207 acre-feet.

With a significant hazard potential, Horseshoe Falls is regulated by the state of Rhode Island, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam has a spillway width of 97 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1067 cubic feet per second, serving a drainage area of 93 square miles.

Despite its age, Horseshoe Falls has not been rated for its condition and underwent its last inspection in August 2012. The dam's location, design, and historical significance make it a fascinating site for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in exploring the impact of such structures on the surrounding environment and water systems.

Year Completed

1885

Dam Length

121

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

PAWCATUCK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

93

Nid Storage

207

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

13
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.