Sylvester Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Sylvester Pond in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, is a charming local water resource managed by the local government.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1922, this Earth dam stands at a height of 23.5 feet, with a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 29 feet. It serves as a source of water storage with a maximum capacity of 81 acre-feet and a normal storage of 70 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 7 acres and draining a 3-acre watershed.

Despite its historical significance and low hazard potential, Sylvester Pond is currently in poor condition, as assessed in May 2018. The dam has not been inspected recently, and there is no emergency action plan in place. With a spillway width of 5 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 113 cubic feet per second, there is room for improvement in terms of maintenance and safety measures. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sylvester Pond presents an opportunity for conservation efforts and risk management strategies to ensure the preservation and functionality of this local gem in Providence County.

As a vital component of the local landscape, Sylvester Pond deserves attention and care to address its poor condition and lack of inspection frequency. Collaboration between state and local authorities, as well as community engagement, can help develop a comprehensive plan for the rehabilitation and maintenance of this historical water resource. With proper risk assessment and management measures in place, Sylvester Pond can continue to serve its purpose for water storage and recreational enjoyment while safeguarding against potential hazards and ensuring long-term sustainability in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1922

Dam Length

256

Dam Height

23.5

River Or Stream

IRONMINE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

81

Structural Height

29

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

29
       
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.