Red Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Red Mill Pond Dam, located in Sussex, Delaware, is a gravity-type dam completed in 1925 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 11.78 feet and with a length of 630 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 636 acre-feet and serves as a controlled spillway for the MARTIN BRANCH river or stream. The dam is state-regulated by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) and has been assessed to have a fair condition with a high hazard potential.

The dam's associated structures include three other controlled outlet gates, and it has a surface area of 201 acres with a drainage area of 7.2 square miles. Despite meeting state inspection, permitting, and enforcement requirements, the dam presents a very high risk, ranked as 1, indicating the need for vigilant risk management measures. The emergency action plan (EAP) status for Red Mill Pond Dam is unspecified, and the hazard potential coupled with the risk assessment underscores the importance of preparedness and monitoring for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in this critical infrastructure.

With its historical significance dating back almost a century, Red Mill Pond Dam remains a focal point for recreational activities while also posing challenges in terms of risk management and maintenance. As climate change continues to impact water resources, ensuring the safety and integrity of dams like Red Mill Pond is paramount. This case study exemplifies the intersection of water management, infrastructure resilience, and environmental stewardship, making it a compelling subject for those passionate about sustainable water resource practices and climate adaptation strategies.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

630

Dam Height

11.78

River Or Stream

MARTIN BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

201

Drainage Area

7.2

Nid Storage

636

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 3

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.