Moores Lake Dam, located in Kent County, Delaware, is a gravity dam completed in 1967 for the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
Wind
Humidity
The dam, standing at a height of 14.02 feet and stretching a length of 515 feet, holds a maximum storage capacity of 446 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 30.8 acres. With its location on Isaac Branch, the dam is regulated by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite being categorized as having a significant hazard potential, Moores Lake Dam is assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in May 2020. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled and spans a width of 63 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 2057 cubic feet per second. While the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with a rating of 3, there is currently no designated emergency action plan (EAP) in place. With its purpose of supporting fish and wildlife habitats and offering recreational opportunities, Moores Lake Dam serves as a vital water resource in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Moores Lake Dam to be an intriguing structure, not only for its engineering design and function but also for its importance in supporting local ecosystems and recreation activities. As a state-regulated dam in Delaware, it stands as a symbol of the balance between human infrastructure development and environmental conservation efforts. With its significant hazard potential and fair condition, the ongoing monitoring and maintenance of Moores Lake Dam are crucial to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of the natural resources it sustains.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
515 |
Dam Height |
14.02 |
River Or Stream |
ISAAC BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
30.8 |
Drainage Area |
14.1 |
Nid Storage |
446 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |