Harris Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Harris Pond, located in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, is a crucial water supply reservoir managed by the local government.


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Summary

The dam at Harris Pond, completed in 1969, is primarily an earth structure with a height of 38 feet and a hydraulic height of 40 feet. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 2,850 acre-feet and serves the purpose of providing water to the surrounding area. With a surface area of 109 acres and a drainage area of 32 square miles, Harris Pond plays a vital role in water resource management in the region.

Despite its importance, Harris Pond has been assessed to be in poor condition with a high hazard potential. The dam, with a length of 1,018 feet, and a spillway width of 150 feet, requires regular inspections due to its poor condition. The last inspection was conducted in February 2016, with a frequency of every 2 years. With the potential risks associated with the dam, it is crucial for the authorities to implement adequate risk management measures and ensure the safety of the surrounding community.

As a water resource and climate enthusiast, understanding the significance of Harris Pond in providing water supply to the area highlights the importance of proper maintenance and management of such infrastructure. With its high hazard potential and poor condition, there is a need for proactive measures to mitigate risks and ensure the safety and sustainability of Harris Pond for the future.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

1018

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

MILL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

109

Hydraulic Height

40

Drainage Area

32

Nid Storage

2850

Structural Height

40

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

40
       
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.