Horseys Pond Dam, located in Laurel, Delaware, is a state-owned structure built in 1956 for the primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
Wind
Humidity
With a dam height of 19.18 feet and a length of 249 feet, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 689.41 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 1057 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Little Creek and is regulated by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC).
This gravity dam, with a buttress core type, is considered to have a high hazard potential and is classified as being in fair condition based on the most recent assessment in April 2020. The dam has a controlled spillway type with a width of 48 feet and is equipped with other controlled outlet gates. Despite its fair condition, the risk assessment for Horseys Pond Dam indicates a very high risk level, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality for the surrounding area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Horseys Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study in the management of Fish and Wildlife Ponds for both recreational and ecological purposes. Its location in Sussex County, Delaware, within the Baltimore District, highlights the importance of state regulation and inspection to mitigate risks associated with dams, especially those with high hazard potentials. The detailed data on the dam's design, storage capacity, and hazard assessment provide valuable insights into the challenges and considerations involved in maintaining water infrastructure in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
249 |
Dam Height |
19.18 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
69.6 |
Drainage Area |
16.7 |
Nid Storage |
1057 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 9 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
19 |