Reynolds Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Reynolds Pond in Sussex, Delaware, is a state-regulated water resource managed by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC).


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Summary

This picturesque pond, located along the Sowbridge Branch, serves primarily for recreational purposes and covers a surface area of 37.2 acres with a maximum storage capacity of 468 acre-feet. The dam, classified as a gravity type with a height of 10.8 feet, was last inspected in May 2020 and was rated in fair condition.

Despite its fair condition assessment, Reynolds Pond poses a high hazard potential due to its location and structural characteristics. The emergency action plan for the pond was last revised in March 2016, and the risk assessment indicates a very high risk level. With a controlled spillway and two outlet gates for water release, the pond is equipped to handle maximum discharges of up to 340 cubic feet per second. Overall, Reynolds Pond serves as a vital recreational and environmental asset in Delaware, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike to its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings.

Years Modified

2005 - Hydraulic

Dam Length

757

Dam Height

10.8

River Or Stream

SOWBRIDGE BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

37.2

Drainage Area

6.6

Nid Storage

468

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
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.