Hopkins Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hopkins Pond is a privately owned reservoir located in Smithfield, Rhode Island, with a primary purpose designated as "Other." The dam at Hopkins Pond is classified as an Earth type, with a structural height of 11 feet and a hydraulic height of 5 feet.


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Summary

The reservoir has a storage capacity of 18 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4 acres. It is fed by Slack Reservoir Brook and has a maximum discharge rate of 325 cubic feet per second.

Despite its picturesque setting, Hopkins Pond poses a high hazard potential due to its condition assessment being rated as poor. The last inspection in October 2013 revealed concerns about the dam's safety and maintenance. The reservoir is in need of significant improvements to meet regulatory standards and ensure public safety. With a history of poor condition assessment and high hazard potential, Hopkins Pond serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections and maintenance for water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, the management and maintenance of structures like Hopkins Pond become even more critical. The reservoir's location in Providence County, Rhode Island, underlines the need for proactive measures to address potential risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities. With the potential for increased extreme weather events and flooding, proper risk assessment and management become essential for the long-term sustainability of Hopkins Pond and other water resources in the region.

Dam Length

25

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

SLACK RESERVOIR BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

5

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

18

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

High

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.