Porter Reservoir Dam, located in New Castle, Delaware, was completed in 1909 and serves as a vital water supply source for the area.
Wind
Humidity
Owned by the local government and regulated by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), this gravity dam stands at a height of 11.8 feet and has a normal storage capacity of 103.38 acre-feet. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition as of its last assessment in 2000.
With a surface area of 6.4 acres and a drainage area of only 0.01 square miles, Porter Reservoir Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources for the surrounding community. Although it lacks a spillway, the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 18 cubic feet per second, ensuring effective water control during peak flow periods. Despite its age, the dam continues to meet state regulatory standards, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its structural integrity and public safety.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Porter Reservoir Dam represents a historic engineering marvel that continues to provide essential water supply services to the residents of Wilmington. With its significant storage capacity and high hazard potential, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and managing critical infrastructure to ensure the sustainability and resilience of water resources in the face of changing climate conditions. As efforts to mitigate risks and improve infrastructure continue, Porter Reservoir Dam remains a key component of the region's water management system, highlighting the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation in a rapidly evolving environment.
Year Completed |
1909 |
Dam Length |
2160 |
Dam Height |
11.8 |
River Or Stream |
MATSON RUN-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
6.4 |
Drainage Area |
0.01 |
Nid Storage |
114 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |