Ingram Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ingram Pond Dam, located in Sussex, Delaware, is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

This gravity dam, standing at a height of 12.33 feet and a length of 560 feet, plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. The dam has a storage capacity of 248 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 62.53 acres, with a drainage area of 16.5 square miles.

The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 37 feet, ensuring safe water release during high flows. Although the hazard potential is categorized as high, the overall condition assessment is fair, indicating the need for regular maintenance and monitoring. The emergency action plan for the dam was last revised in 2016, highlighting the importance of preparedness and risk management for this critical infrastructure. With its strategic location on Shoals Branch and its impact on recreation and wildlife in the region, Ingram Pond Dam serves as a key component of water resource management in Delaware.

As a significant structure owned by the state and regulated by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), Ingram Pond Dam stands as a testament to the importance of balancing water resource management, wildlife conservation, and recreational activities in a rapidly changing climate. With its role in flood control, habitat preservation, and water storage, this dam represents a vital link between human activities and the natural environment, making it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to understand the intersection of infrastructure development and environmental stewardship.

Dam Length

560

Dam Height

12.33

River Or Stream

SHOALS BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

62.53

Drainage Area

16.5

Nid Storage

248

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 8

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.