Hudson Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hudson Pond Dam, located in Sussex, Delaware, is a state-owned structure that serves the primary purpose of a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1958, this gravity dam stands at a height of 9.37 feet and has a length of 415 feet. With a storage capacity of 169 acre-feet, the dam provides essential habitat for aquatic wildlife and recreational opportunities for the community.

Despite its low hazard potential, Hudson Pond Dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and improvement. The dam's emergency action plan has not been updated recently, raising concerns about its readiness in case of a critical event. The risk assessment for the dam is classified as very high, emphasizing the importance of proactive risk management measures to ensure the safety of surrounding areas and the integrity of the structure.

The dam's association with Cedar Creek and its controlled spillway design with two outlet gates contribute to its vital role in managing water resources and providing environmental benefits. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and advocating for the maintenance and enhancement of dams like Hudson Pond Dam is crucial for preserving ecosystems, supporting wildlife, and safeguarding communities in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

415

Dam Height

9.37

River Or Stream

CEDAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

20.9

Drainage Area

5.45

Nid Storage

169

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 2

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
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.