Dexter Farm Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Dexter Farm Pond in Johnston, Rhode Island, is a privately-owned Earth dam completed in 1966 for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

This significant water resource has a dam height of 10.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 8 feet, with a structural height of 10 feet and a length of 400 feet. The pond has a storage capacity of 5 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 4 acre-feet and a surface area of 1 acre, making it a crucial asset for the local community.

Managed by the Rhode Island State Regulatory Agency, Dexter Farm Pond is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Although the condition assessment is currently not rated, the hazard potential is deemed significant, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The last inspection was conducted in October 2014, with a scheduled inspection frequency of 5 years to monitor any changes in conditions and address any potential risks promptly.

As a key feature in the Pocasset River watershed, Dexter Farm Pond plays a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience in the area. With the potential for a maximum discharge of 79 cubic feet per second, the pond serves as a crucial asset for fire protection and supporting local wildlife. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the ecological and functional significance of Dexter Farm Pond in maintaining the balance of the surrounding ecosystem and enhancing the community's resilience to environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

10.5

River Or Stream

POCASSET RIVER-TRIB

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

5

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

11
       
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.