Williams Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Williams Pond Dam, located in Sussex, Delaware, is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1956, this gravity dam stands at a height of 13.5 feet and has a length of 498 feet, creating a storage capacity of 800 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Clear Brook, boasts a surface area of 413.22 acres with a drainage area of 23.23 square miles.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Williams Pond Dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition, last inspected in April 2020. With controlled spillways and outlet gates, the dam has undergone modifications in 2011 to enhance its hydraulic and structural components. The risk assessment for this dam indicates a very high risk level, necessitating ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure its safety and stability for both water resource and climate enthusiasts who frequent the recreational area it serves in SEAFORD.

Years Modified

2011 - Hydraulic, 2011 - Structural

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

498

Dam Height

13.5

River Or Stream

CLEAR BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

413.22

Drainage Area

23.23

Nid Storage

800

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.