Wagamons Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wagamons Pond Dam, also known as Lavinia, Milton, and Paynters, is a gravity dam located in Sussex County, Delaware, along the Broadkill River.


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Summary

Built in 1815, this historic structure serves as a fish and wildlife pond, providing essential habitat for local fauna and a picturesque backdrop for recreational activities. With a height of 17.39 feet and a length of 845 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 260 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 112.01 acres.

Managed by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), Wagamons Pond Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its age and condition. Despite being rated as fair in terms of its structural integrity, the dam underwent hydraulic modifications in 1992 to enhance its safety measures. Regular inspections are conducted, with the most recent assessment taking place in May 2020. The dam is equipped with controlled spillways and outlet gates to manage water flow and prevent overtopping during high-discharge events.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance and ecological importance of Wagamons Pond Dam. As a vital component of the local landscape, this gravity dam exemplifies the intersection of human engineering with natural ecosystems. With its rich history, diverse wildlife habitat, and recreational opportunities, Wagamons Pond Dam stands as a testament to the enduring relationship between water resources and environmental conservation in Delaware.

Years Modified

1992 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1815

Dam Length

845

Dam Height

17.39

River Or Stream

BROADKILL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

112.01

Drainage Area

22.2

Nid Storage

260

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
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.