Hope

PAWTUXET RIVER-NORTH BRANCH· Providence, Rhode Island· Built 1885· Masonry· 19 ft tall
Significant Hazard Hydroelectric Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Hope is classified as significant hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1885 and is 141 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 19 ft (taller than 78.8% in RI)
Dam Length300 ft
Dam TypeMasonry
Max Storage418 acre-ft
Normal Storage264 acre-ft
Surface Area35 acres
Drainage Area98 sq mi
Max Discharge10,730 cfs
Year Completed1885 (141 years old)
NID IDRI03005

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: June 23, 2016
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DS

Ownership

HOPE MILL VILLAGE

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Hope?

Hope is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Hope?

Hope is owned by HOPE MILL VILLAGE (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Hope built?

Hope was completed in 1885, making it 141 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Hope?

Hope serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Hope?

Hope has a dam height of 19 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Hope last inspected?

Hope was last inspected on June 23, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.