Sunset Lake Dam, also known as Silver Lake, is a private-owned structure located in Cedar Farms, New Castle, Delaware.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1900, this gravity-type dam stands at a height of 13.29 feet and spans 290 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 553 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a serene spot for water enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as boating and fishing.
Despite its age, Sunset Lake Dam has a high hazard potential due to its condition being "Not Rated" and a moderate risk assessment level of 3. The dam sits on the Muddy Run stream and has a spillway width of 40 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 259.1 cubic feet per second. While it is not regulated by the state or federal agencies, the dam does not have a designated emergency action plan in place, raising concerns about its ability to handle potential emergencies.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sunset Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of a historic structure with potential vulnerabilities. As a privately-owned dam with no state regulation or inspection, there is a need for increased monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety and longevity of this recreational asset. Additionally, the dam's location in a high-risk area highlights the importance of proactive maintenance and emergency preparedness to mitigate potential hazards and protect surrounding communities and ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
290 |
Dam Height |
13.29 |
River Or Stream |
MUDDY RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
48.65 |
Drainage Area |
8.2 |
Nid Storage |
553 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |