Hefler Farm Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hefler Farm Pond, also known as Browning Pond, is a picturesque water resource located in South Kingstown, Rhode Island.


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Summary

This man-made pond serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stocking, and providing a habitat for small fish. Constructed in 1972, the dam at Hefler Farm Pond stands at a height of 11 feet with a structural height of 8 feet and a hydraulic height of 6 feet, creating a storage capacity of 6 acre-feet.

Despite its scenic beauty and important functions, Hefler Farm Pond poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition. The last inspection in 2017 revealed deficiencies that need to be addressed to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam. With a drainage area of 2 acres and a maximum discharge of 105 cubic feet per second, the pond plays a critical role in managing water flow in the area and protecting downstream communities from flooding risks.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is crucial for stakeholders to prioritize the maintenance and rehabilitation of structures like Hefler Farm Pond to enhance resilience and ensure sustainable water management practices. By investing in necessary repairs and updates, this historic pond can continue to provide vital services while safeguarding the surrounding environment for generations to come.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

170

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

ROCKY BROOK

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

6

Structural Height

8

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.