Becks Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Becks Pond Dam, located in Heather Woods, Delaware, is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

This gravity dam, with a height of 21 feet and a length of 348 feet, holds a normal storage capacity of 140.3 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 500 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Belltown Run, is managed by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) and is inspected regularly to ensure its fair condition and high hazard potential are monitored and managed effectively.

The controlled spillway of Becks Pond Dam has a width of 39 feet, and it is equipped with other controlled outlet gates to regulate discharge. With a very high risk rating and a history of modifications and inspections dating back to 2020, the dam is essential for flood control and recreational activities in the area. Lisa Blunt Rochester, the Congressional representative for the district, oversees the management and regulatory aspects of the dam, ensuring the safety of the surrounding community and wildlife.

As a crucial water resource infrastructure, Becks Pond Dam plays a vital role in supporting the local ecosystem and providing recreational opportunities for residents. With its significant storage capacity and controlled spillway, the dam stands as a symbol of environmental stewardship and regulatory diligence in managing water resources. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's fair condition and regular inspections showcase a commitment to public safety and environmental protection in the region.

Dam Length

348

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

BELLTOWN RUN

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

32.1

Drainage Area

6

Nid Storage

500

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 6

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

21
       
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.