Betts Pond Main Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

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


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Summary

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
       
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.