Gorton Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Gorton Pond, located in Warwick, Rhode Island, is a man-made reservoir on the Apponaug Brook, constructed in 1865 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam at Gorton Pond is a gravity type, standing at a height of 7 feet with a structural height of 9 feet and a length of 100 feet. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 216 acre-feet and a surface area of 62 acres, serving as a vital water resource for the local community.

Despite its historical significance, Gorton Pond's dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a low hazard potential. The last inspection in May 2018 revealed the need for maintenance and repair. The pond's drainage area is 2 square miles, and the maximum discharge capacity is 300 cubic feet per second, highlighting its importance in flood control and water management in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Gorton Pond offers a glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and natural landscapes. As efforts are made to address the dam's structural issues and ensure its safety, the reservoir continues to play a crucial role in local water supply and recreational activities. Understanding the history and condition of Gorton Pond sheds light on the ongoing challenges and opportunities in managing our water resources in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1865

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

APPONAUG BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

62

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

216

Structural Height

9

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
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.