Yorker Mill Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Yorker Mill Pond, also known as Slocum Dam or Yawgoo Mill Pond, is a privately owned water resource located in Exeter, Rhode Island.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This rockfill dam, completed in 1855, stands at a height of 12 feet and has a hydraulic height of 10 feet, with a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet. The pond covers an area of 14 acres and is fed by the Chipuxet River, serving primarily for recreational purposes.

Despite its age, Yorker Mill Pond remains under state regulation with permits, inspections, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of May 2018. With a spillway width of 34 feet and a maximum discharge of 236 cubic feet per second, the dam is designed to manage water levels effectively and protect downstream areas in case of emergency.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Yorker Mill Pond offers a historic glimpse into the region's water management practices and provides a valuable recreational space for the community. The dam's association with the Chipuxet River and its location in the picturesque Washington County make it a significant landmark for those interested in the intersection of water resources and environmental conservation in Rhode Island.

Year Completed

1855

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

CHIPUXET RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

100

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

12
       
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.