Pawtucket Upper Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Pawtucket Upper, also known as Slater Mill Pond, is a historic dam located on the Blackstone River in Providence, Rhode Island.


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Summary

Built in 1800, this concrete dam stands at 15 feet tall and spans 200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam still plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of the river, with a maximum discharge capacity of 20,700 cubic feet per second.

While Pawtucket Upper has a low hazard potential, its condition assessment is poor, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure its long-term stability. The dam is currently under private ownership but is subject to state jurisdiction and inspection protocols. With a drainage area of 474 square miles, the dam's impact on water resources and the surrounding environment is significant, making it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the future of Pawtucket Upper remains uncertain. Efforts to improve its condition, enhance its resilience to extreme weather events, and mitigate potential risks will be crucial in ensuring the safety and sustainability of this historic structure. With its rich history and strategic location on the Blackstone River, Pawtucket Upper serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between water resources, climate change, and the need for proactive management and adaptation strategies.

Year Completed

1800

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

BLACKSTONE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

474

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.