Silver Lake Dam - Milford Reservoir Report
Nearby: Haven Lake Dam Marshall Millpond Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Silver Lake Dam in Milford, Delaware, also known as Milford Mill Pond, is a state-owned structure regulated by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC).
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1964, this gravity dam primarily serves the purpose of a Fish and Wildlife Pond, offering recreational opportunities in addition to its ecological functions. Located on the Mispillion River in Kent County, the dam stands at a height of 13.37 feet and has a length of 750 feet, with a storage capacity of 520 acre-feet.
With a hazard potential rated as high and a condition assessment of fair, Silver Lake Dam poses a significant risk due to its very high risk assessment level. Despite this, the dam is inspected regularly, with the last assessment conducted in October 2020. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 90 feet and one other controlled outlet gate. The surrounding area covers 32.2 acres, with a drainage area of 26.6 square miles, making it an important water resource for the region.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Silver Lake Dam - Milford an intriguing structure due to its dual purpose of wildlife conservation and recreational use, while also being a vital component in the local ecosystem. The dam's risk assessment and hazard potential highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality in the face of changing environmental conditions. With its location on the Mispillion River and its critical role in water management, Silver Lake Dam serves as a focal point for conservation efforts and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
13.37 |
River Or Stream |
MISPILLION RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
32.2 |
Drainage Area |
26.6 |
Nid Storage |
520 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Silver Lake Dam - Milford
Millwood Road Kent County
Griffith Lake
Blairs Pond
Abbotts Pond
Coursey Pond
Killen Pond