Betts Pond Route 113 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Betts Pond Route 113 Dam, located in Millsboro, Delaware, is a state-owned structure on the Shoals Branch river.


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Summary

This gravity dam stands at a height of 10 feet with a length of 401 feet, providing a storage capacity of 329 acre-feet. The dam primarily serves recreational purposes, offering a serene surface area of 36 acres for visitors to enjoy.

Despite its fair condition assessment, Betts Pond Route 113 Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its design and location. The dam has undergone multiple modifications over the years to enhance its hydraulic capabilities, with the most recent inspection conducted in April 2020. With a moderate risk assessment rating, it is crucial for state regulators and enforcement agencies, including DNREC, to ensure regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks associated with the dam.

As a vital part of the water resource infrastructure in Sussex County, Delaware, Betts Pond Route 113 Dam plays a significant role in water storage and management. Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate change should keep a close eye on the dam's condition and any future developments to safeguard the surrounding community and preserve this recreational asset for generations to come.

Years Modified

1930 - Hydraulic, 1946 - Hydraulic, 1966 - Hydraulic

Dam Length

401

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

SHOALS BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

36

Drainage Area

17.2

Nid Storage

329

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.