Hughesdale Pond Upper Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hughesdale Pond Upper, located in Johnston, Rhode Island, is a privately owned water resource that plays a crucial role in the local climate and ecosystem.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam structure on Dry Brook serves multiple purposes and is regulated by the state, with a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. The pond has a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 290 cubic feet per second, making it a significant feature in the area.

Despite its importance, Hughesdale Pond Upper is in need of attention and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam stands at a height of 21.8 feet and has a hydraulic height of 20 feet, with a spillway width of 34 feet. Its surface area covers 5 acres and it has a drainage area of 3 acres. With the last inspection conducted in 2014, efforts are required to address the poor condition assessment and high hazard potential of the dam to mitigate risks and safeguard the surrounding community and environment.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Hughesdale Pond Upper in the local ecosystem and the potential consequences of its deteriorating condition. As a key feature in the area, this dam requires ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and potentially rehabilitation efforts to ensure its continued functionality and safety. By addressing the identified risks and hazards, stakeholders can work towards preserving this important water resource for the benefit of the community and the environment.

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

21.8

River Or Stream

DRY BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

55

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

22
       
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.