James Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

James Pond, located in Exeter, Rhode Island, is a rockfill dam on the Beaver River that was completed in 1885.


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Summary

With a height of 9 feet and a storage capacity of 106 acre-feet, this dam serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area. Despite its historical significance, the dam is currently in poor condition and has a low hazard potential, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure its continued functionality and safety.

Although James Pond is privately owned and not regulated by the state, it is subject to periodic inspections to assess its condition and safety. The dam's primary purpose is classified as "Other," reflecting its multi-functional role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. With a surface area of 24 acres and a maximum discharge of 60 cubic feet per second, James Pond plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply management in the area.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the importance of maintaining and upgrading dams like James Pond becomes increasingly evident. With its historical significance and role in water management, efforts to improve the condition and safety of James Pond will be essential in ensuring the long-term sustainability and resilience of the region's water resources in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1885

Dam Length

380

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

BEAVER RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

24

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

106

Structural Height

9

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
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.