Betts Pond Main Dam, located in Sussex County, Delaware, is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
The dam, designed by DelDOT and an unknown designer, stands at a height of 12.95 feet and has a length of 550 feet. It holds a NID storage capacity of 327.7 acre-feet, with a maximum storage of 327.7 acre-feet and a normal storage of 170.6 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Shoals Branch and is under the jurisdiction of the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC).
The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 50 feet and two other controlled outlet gates. It has a high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in fair condition as of April 2020. The risk assessment for Betts Pond Main Dam rates it as very high (1) on the risk scale, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and management measures. While the dam has not been modified since 2003, it undergoes regular inspections with an inspection frequency of once per year to ensure its safety and integrity for both recreational purposes and water resource management.
With its picturesque location and vital role in providing recreational opportunities, Betts Pond Main Dam serves as a significant structure in the water resource landscape of Delaware. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find interest in the technical details and regulatory oversight of this gravity dam, showcasing the intersection of engineering, environmental stewardship, and public safety in managing our water infrastructure.
Years Modified |
2003 - Hydraulic |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
12.95 |
River Or Stream |
SHOALS BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
39.3 |
Drainage Area |
17.6 |
Nid Storage |
327.7 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Trap Pond State Park
|
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Tall Pines Campground
|
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Massey Landing
|