Great Swamp Goose Marsh Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Great Swamp Goose Marsh is a state-owned rockfill dam located in South Kingstown, Rhode Island, along the Pawcatuck River.


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Summary

Built in 1960 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, providing essential habitat for local wildlife and recreational opportunities for visitors. With a dam height of 8 feet and a storage capacity of 770 acre-feet, the structure covers a surface area of 190 acres and has a controlled spillway width of 30 feet.

Despite its important role in supporting biodiversity and outdoor activities, Great Swamp Goose Marsh is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a very high risk level assigned due to its outdated infrastructure. The dam's hazard potential is classified as low, but there are concerns about its structural integrity and the potential consequences of a failure. With no recent inspections and no emergency action plan in place, there is a pressing need for improved risk management measures and regular maintenance to ensure the safety and longevity of this vital water resource.

Given its significance as a Fish and Wildlife Pond and recreational area, the restoration and maintenance of Great Swamp Goose Marsh should be a priority for state agencies and conservationists. By addressing the dam's poor condition, implementing risk management measures, and developing an emergency action plan, stakeholders can safeguard this valuable ecosystem and enhance its resilience to climate change impacts. With proactive efforts and collaboration, Great Swamp Goose Marsh can continue to thrive as a thriving wetland habitat and beloved natural resource for generations to come.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

7200

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

PAWCATUCK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

190

Hydraulic Height

7

Nid Storage

770

Structural Height

8

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

8
       
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.