Hopkins Mill Pond Reservoir Report
Nearby: Spear Pond Barden Reservoir
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Hopkins Mill Pond, located in Foster, Rhode Island, is a rockfill dam completed in 1865 along the Ponaganset River.
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Summary
With a height of 9 feet and a storage capacity of 109 acre-feet, this dam serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently in poor condition, as assessed in October 2017.
The primary purpose of Hopkins Mill Pond is categorized as "Other," with a normal storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks certain safety features such as spillways or outlet gates, its structural integrity remains intact. The responsibility for inspection and enforcement falls under the state jurisdiction, with periodic inspections carried out to ensure public safety.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hopkins Mill Pond presents an intriguing case study in dam management and maintenance. As concerns over climate change and water scarcity grow, the importance of monitoring and assessing the condition of existing water infrastructure like Hopkins Mill Pond becomes increasingly crucial. With a rich history dating back to the 19th century, this dam serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between human-made structures and the natural environment.
Year Completed |
1865 |
Dam Length |
120 |
Dam Height |
5 |
River Or Stream |
PONAGANSET RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Hydraulic Height |
4 |
Drainage Area |
13 |
Nid Storage |
109 |
Structural Height |
9 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Dyer Woods Nudist Campgrounds
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George Washington State Campground
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Narragansett Council, Boy Scouts of America, Cub World
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Hopkins Mill Pond
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