Bleachery Pond Reservoir Report
Nearby: Barney Pond Olney Pond
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bleachery Pond, located in Lincoln, Rhode Island, is a private hydroelectric dam that was completed in 1883.
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Summary
The dam stands at 8 feet high and spans a length of 400 feet, with a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet. Situated on the Moshassuck River, the dam has a maximum discharge rate of 1375 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 55 feet. Despite its historic significance, the dam has been classified as having a high hazard potential and poor condition, with the last inspection in 2010 revealing the need for urgent maintenance and repairs.
The primary purpose of Bleachery Pond is hydroelectric power generation, making it a key contributor to the region's renewable energy resources. However, its deteriorating condition poses a threat to both the environment and local communities downstream. With state regulation and enforcement in place, there is a need for proactive measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam. It remains critical for stakeholders to prioritize the maintenance and rehabilitation of Bleachery Pond to mitigate the risk of potential failures and safeguard the surrounding ecosystem.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the conservation and sustainable management of Bleachery Pond serves as a crucial focal point for addressing the intersection of infrastructure, energy, and environmental protection. By implementing risk assessment and management measures, along with regular inspections and maintenance, the dam can continue to harness the power of water while minimizing its impact on the surrounding ecosystem. Ultimately, the preservation of Bleachery Pond is not only essential for maintaining a renewable energy source but also for safeguarding the long-term resilience and sustainability of the region's water resources in the face of climate change.
Year Completed |
1883 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
MOSHASSUCK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
4 |
Drainage Area |
7 |
Nid Storage |
30 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
8 |
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.
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