Lake Como Dam, located in Smyrna, Delaware, is a gravity dam constructed in 1938 primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
With a height of 15 feet and a length of 181 feet, it impounds Mill Creek, providing a surface area of 53 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 369 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
The dam's spillway, which is controlled and 125 feet wide, allows for a maximum discharge of 1180 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is in fair condition as of the last inspection in April 2020. It is equipped with a slide (sluice gate) as the outlet gate and is considered a very high-risk structure. Emergency action plans and risk management measures are crucial for the safety and security of the surrounding area in the event of a dam failure or emergency situation.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Lake Como Dam will find its historical significance and engineering aspects fascinating. As a vital recreational resource in Kent County, Delaware, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring of infrastructure to ensure public safety and water management. The dam's association with Mill Creek and its impact on the local ecosystem make it an intriguing subject for further study and appreciation of the interconnectedness between water resources and climate resilience efforts.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
181 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
MILL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
53 |
Drainage Area |
6.3 |
Nid Storage |
369 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |