Waples Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Waples Pond Dam, also known as Old Mill, is a state-owned structure located in Sussex, Delaware, along the Primehook Creek.


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Summary

This gravity dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, with a primary purpose of supporting wildlife and recreation in the area. Standing at a height of 9.67 feet and with a length of 910 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 930 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 52.9 acres.

Although the dam is not regulated or inspected by the state, it has been assessed to be in fair condition as of July 2008, with a low hazard potential. Despite its relatively low risk, the dam poses a very high risk in case of failure, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance. With a controlled spillway and a maximum discharge capacity of 700 cubic feet per second, the Waples Pond Dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will be interested in the unique features of Waples Pond Dam, such as its buttress core design and unlisted/unknown foundation type. As a key structure in the region, the dam contributes to the conservation of wildlife and provides opportunities for outdoor recreation. While the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition, ongoing risk management measures and regular inspections are essential to ensure the safety and integrity of this important water resource infrastructure.

Dam Length

910

Dam Height

9.67

River Or Stream

PRIMEHOOK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

52.9

Drainage Area

15.25

Nid Storage

930

Hazard Potential

Low

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.