Buck Hill Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Buck Hill Pond, located in the Buck Hill Management Area in Providence, Rhode Island, is a picturesque fish and wildlife pond built in 1962 with a primary purpose of supporting local wildlife and recreational activities.


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Summary

Managed by the USDA NRCS, this gravity dam structure stands at 13 feet tall and spans 500 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 110 acre-feet. Despite its poor condition assessment in 2017, Buck Hill Pond remains a low-hazard facility with a relatively low risk assessment rating.

This tranquil oasis, nestled along Leeson Brook, offers a serene setting for nature enthusiasts and climate advocates to appreciate the importance of water resource management. With a controlled spillway and vertical lift outlet gates, this pond not only provides vital habitat for fish and wildlife but also serves as a recreational haven for the local community. While lacking recent inspection data, Buck Hill Pond's rich history and scenic beauty make it a valuable asset worth preserving for future generations.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and ecosystems, the conservation of Buck Hill Pond becomes increasingly crucial. With a very high risk assessment ranking, there is a need for improved risk management measures and regular inspections to ensure the structural integrity and safety of this vital water resource. As advocates for sustainable environmental practices, it is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to support the preservation and maintenance of Buck Hill Pond for the benefit of both wildlife and the local community.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

LEESON BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

90

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

110

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

14
       
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.