Blackstone Reservoir Report
Last Updated: March 17, 2026
Blackstone, also known as Tupperware, is a private hydroelectric facility located in North Smithfield, Rhode Island along the Blackstone River.
Summary
The dam has a height of 12 feet and a length of 210 feet, with a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet and a drainage area of 261 square miles. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is in poor condition as of the last assessment in May 2018.
The facility does not fall under state jurisdiction and is not regulated or permitted by state agencies. It is not owned or funded by federal agencies, and there have been no recent inspections or emergency preparedness assessments. The primary purpose of Blackstone is hydroelectric power generation, and it does not have any associated locks or outlet gates. With its unique location and historical significance along the Blackstone River, this private dam serves as a reminder of the region's industrial past and the importance of water resources in shaping the local landscape.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
15-Day Weather Outlook
Dam Length |
210 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
BLACKSTONE RIVER |
Surface Area |
12 |
Drainage Area |
261 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Branch River At Forestdale
|
1010cfs |
Blackstone River At Woonsocket
|
3490cfs |
West River Below West Hill Dam
|
1cfs |
Nipmuc River Near Harrisville
|
239cfs |
Blackstone River At Northbridge
|
1090cfs |
Woonasquatucket River At Centerdale
|
458cfs |
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.
Blackstone
Farnum Pike 334, Smithfield