According to a 2005 report by Patty Gambarini of the Southern Rhode Island Conservation District, Sandhill Brook was dammed to create Sawmill Pond early in Colonial days and last used to power industry before the Civil War. Over the years its 65-foot-wide dam has been reduced to about one foot in height, and sediment has filled the impoundment to the point that it resembles a marsh more than a pond.

Studies have identified retrofit projects to reduce runoff and erosion; some have been implemented.

A footpath bisects the pond, connecting Sachem Road to the end of Lake Drive and the water's edge is parkland.