Arctic Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Arctic, also known as the Factory Street Dam, is a private hydroelectric structure located in Rhode Island along the South Branch Pawtuxet River.


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Summary

Built in 1885, this masonry dam stands at a height of 27.5 feet and spans 100 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 442 acre-feet and a spillway width of 100 feet. The dam serves as a crucial source of hydropower in the area, with a maximum discharge capacity of 5500 cubic feet per second.

Despite its historic significance and role in providing renewable energy, Arctic poses a high hazard potential due to its age and structural condition being listed as "Not Available." The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and is subject to regular inspections to ensure public safety. In the event of an emergency, it is essential for stakeholders to have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, although details on its preparedness are not currently available.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the risk assessment for Arctic is deemed moderate. With a drainage area of 73 square miles and a surface area of 45 acres, the dam plays a critical role in managing water flow and storage in the region. As enthusiasts for water resources and climate action, it is essential to monitor and address the challenges faced by structures like Arctic to ensure their continued functionality and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1885

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

27.5

River Or Stream

South Branch Pawtuxet River

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

45

Drainage Area

73

Nid Storage

442

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

28
       
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.