Hope is a historic and significant masonry dam located in Scituate, Rhode Island, along the Pawtuxet River-North Branch.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1885, this dam serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation and recreation. With a height of 19 feet and a storage capacity of 418 acre-feet, Hope has a normal storage of 264 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 10,730 cubic feet per second.
Owned by the local government and regulated by the state, Hope Dam is inspected every 5 years for safety and maintenance. The dam has a spillway width of 147 feet and a surface area of 35 acres, providing important water resource management for the surrounding area. Despite its age, the dam is considered to have a significant hazard potential and its condition is currently not rated.
Representing a blend of historical significance and contemporary functionality, Hope Dam stands as a testament to the enduring value of water resource infrastructure in the face of changing climates and evolving needs. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate management can appreciate the role this dam plays in balancing environmental protection, recreation, and hydroelectric power generation in the region.
Year Completed |
1885 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
PAWTUXET RIVER-NORTH BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
35 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
98 |
Nid Storage |
418 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
19 |