Indian Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Peace Dale Pond Hefler Farm Pond
Last Updated: January 13, 2026
Indian Lake, located in South Kingstown, Rhode Island, is a private water resource primarily used for recreation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam, completed in 1900, is a rockfill structure standing at a height of 12 feet and stretching 1000 feet in length. With a maximum storage capacity of 800 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 733 acre-feet, the lake covers a surface area of 200 acres and serves a drainage area of 8 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential, Indian Lake is currently assessed to be in poor condition as of May 2018. The dam's inspection frequency is listed as 0, indicating a potential need for more regular evaluations to ensure its structural integrity. While the lake offers recreational opportunities, the lack of state regulation, permitting, and enforcement raises concerns about the long-term management and maintenance of this vital water resource in the face of changing climate conditions.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Indian Lake presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned dam in need of attention and potential improvements to meet modern safety standards. As efforts to address climate change intensify, ensuring the resilience and sustainability of water infrastructure like Indian Lake will be crucial in safeguarding both the environment and public safety. The collaboration between private owners, state agencies, and interested stakeholders will be essential in preserving this recreational asset for future generations.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
SAUGATUCKET RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
200 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
8 |
Nid Storage |
800 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Indian Lake
Indian Lake State Boat Launch