Sprague Upper Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Sprague Upper Reservoir is a captivating water resource located in Smithfield, Rhode Island.


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Summary

This private-owned reservoir serves as a popular recreational spot, offering activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. The dam, completed in 1885, stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 368 acre-feet, providing a scenic surface area of 23 acres for visitors to enjoy.

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Sprague Upper Reservoir poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. With a limited inspection frequency of every two years, there is a pressing need for maintenance and risk management measures to ensure the safety of the dam and surrounding area. The reservoir is regulated by the state, with the Department of Environmental Management overseeing permitting, inspection, and enforcement activities.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts may be drawn to Sprague Upper Reservoir for its tranquil setting amidst the Stillwater River tributary. While the reservoir offers a picturesque escape for outdoor enthusiasts, the high hazard potential and poor condition assessment signal the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to safeguard both the dam and the recreational opportunities it provides.

Year Completed

1885

Dam Length

252

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

STILLWATER RIVER-TRIB

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

23

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

368

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

26
       
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.