Haven Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Haven Lake Dam, located in Kent, Delaware, serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife conservation while also providing opportunities for recreational activities.


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Summary

Managed by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), this gravity dam stands at a height of 16.82 feet with a length of 978 feet, impounding the waters of the Mispillion River to create a surface area of 88.4 acres.

With a storage capacity of 390 acre-feet and a controlled spillway width of 117 feet, Haven Lake Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and supporting the local ecosystem. Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, the dam has undergone regular inspections, with the last one conducted in May 2020. The risk assessment for this structure ranks as very high, highlighting the need for proper risk management measures to ensure public safety and the integrity of the dam.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, Haven Lake Dam stands as a beacon of resilience in the face of evolving challenges. Its importance in safeguarding wildlife habitats, providing recreational opportunities, and managing water flow underscores the critical role that dams play in the interplay between human activities and the natural environment. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and supporting the maintenance and sustainable management of structures like Haven Lake Dam is essential for promoting a balanced and harmonious coexistence with our surroundings.

Dam Length

978

Dam Height

16.82

River Or Stream

MISPILLION RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

88.4

Drainage Area

25.4

Nid Storage

390

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 4

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
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.