Chipman Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chipman Pond Dam, located in Sussex, Delaware, serves as a crucial habitat for fish and wildlife, making it a vital resource for conservation efforts in the area.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1915, stands at a height of 14.15 feet and stretches over 705 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 438 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is to support the fish and wildlife population in the surrounding Elliot Pond Branch, while also providing opportunities for recreation.

Despite its importance, Chipman Pond Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been rated as having a fair condition. Regular inspections by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) ensure its structural integrity and safety. In 2017, hydraulic modifications were made to enhance its functionality. Emergency action plans are in place, although their adherence to guidelines and risk management measures remain unspecified. With its significant storage capacity and role in supporting the local ecosystem, Chipman Pond Dam stands as a critical asset in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region.

Years Modified

2017 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

705

Dam Height

14.15

River Or Stream

ELLIOT POND BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

57.25

Drainage Area

16.8

Nid Storage

438

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2, Vertical Lift - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.