Hearns Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hearns Pond Dam, also known as Hearn and Rawlin Mill Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Sussex, Delaware.


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Summary

Completed in 1912, this gravity dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, offering recreational opportunities in addition to its primary purpose. With a height of 14 feet and a length of 580 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 1434 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1371.36 acre-feet.

Managed by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), Hearns Pond Dam has undergone several modifications over the years to enhance its structural and hydraulic components. The dam is equipped with a controlled spillway, measuring 102 feet in width, and features two vertical lift outlet gates for water release. Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of November 2020, the dam is classified with a high hazard potential and a very high risk level, warranting ongoing risk management measures.

Located on the Clear Brook stream, Hearns Pond Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and wildlife conservation in the area. Its inspection, maintenance, and emergency action plan preparedness are essential to ensuring public safety and environmental protection. With its rich history and significance, the dam stands as an important landmark in the water infrastructure of Delaware, serving both practical and recreational purposes for the community.

Years Modified

2002 - Structural, 2006 - Hydraulic, 2006 - Structural, 2017 - Hydraulic, 2017 - Structural

Year Completed

1912

Dam Length

580

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

CLEAR BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

24.47

Drainage Area

12.83

Nid Storage

1434

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 2

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.