Natick Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Natick Pond, located in West Warwick, Rhode Island, is a picturesque water body that serves as a critical resource for the local community.


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Summary

Managed by the state regulatory agency, the dam at Natick Pond stands at a height of 30.4 feet and was completed in 1886. With a storage capacity of 1100 acre-feet and a surface area of 46 acres, the pond plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of the Pawtuxet River and providing essential water supply for the region.

Despite its historical significance, Natick Pond poses a high hazard potential and has been rated as being in poor condition. The last inspection in 2017 highlighted the need for urgent maintenance and improvement measures to ensure the safety and functionality of the dam. With a maximum discharge capacity of 4700 cubic feet per second, any failure in the structure could have devastating consequences for downstream areas.

To address the risks associated with Natick Pond, it is imperative for the local government and stakeholders to prioritize the rehabilitation and maintenance of the dam. By implementing necessary upgrades and safety measures, the community can safeguard this valuable water resource for future generations and mitigate the potential impacts of climate change on the region's water infrastructure.

Year Completed

1886

Dam Length

263

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

PAWTUXET RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

46

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

182

Nid Storage

1100

Structural Height

30.4

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

30
       
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.