Diamond Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Diamond Pond Dam, also known as Bailey, Drapers, Lower Wagamons, and Sawmill, is a state-owned structure located in Sussex, Delaware.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Situated in MILTON along the INGRAM BRANCH river, this gravity dam serves a primary purpose of recreation, offering a serene reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 120.21 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 320 acre-feet.

With a height of 16.93 feet and a length of 435 feet, Diamond Pond Dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 26 feet and two other controlled outlet gates. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam poses a very high risk due to its location and design. Although the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, its risk management measures are under evaluation to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the environment.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Diamond Pond Dam presents a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of human engineering and natural landscapes. As a site for recreation and water storage, the dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between harnessing natural resources for human benefit and safeguarding against potential risks and hazards.

Dam Length

435

Dam Height

16.93

River Or Stream

INGRAM BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

44.3

Drainage Area

24.1

Nid Storage

320

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 2

Hazard Potential

Low

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.