Shallcross Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shallcross Lake Dam, located in Odessa, Delaware, is a gravity dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 8 feet and a length of 545 feet, holds a maximum storage capacity of 631 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 47.26 acres. It is situated on Drawyer Creek, within the Baltimore District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Shallcross Lake Dam is currently not regulated or inspected by the state of Delaware. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates, the dam has not undergone a condition assessment and is not rated for its current state. However, the dam provides a tranquil recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities in the surrounding area.

Although Shallcross Lake Dam may not be subject to state regulations or inspections, its role in providing a recreational space along Drawyer Creek adds value to the community of Odessa and the surrounding New Castle County. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the area, they can appreciate the beauty of the dam and its contribution to the local environment, despite the minimal state oversight in place.

Dam Length

545

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

DRAWYER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

47.26

Drainage Area

6.29

Nid Storage

631

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.