Craigs Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Craigs Pond in Sussex, Delaware, is a state-owned Gravity dam that serves as a critical habitat for fish and wildlife, as well as a popular recreational spot.


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Summary

With a dam height of 13.6 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 249 acre-feet, the pond covers a surface area of 18.24 acres and has a drainage area of 8.36 square miles. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 77 feet, ensuring proper water management and safety.

The dam, completed in an unspecified year, underwent modifications in 1976 and 2017 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities. The pond's condition is assessed as fair, with a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating of 1. Despite not being regulated by the state, Craigs Pond is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure its structural integrity and continued function. With its picturesque setting and diverse ecosystem, Craigs Pond stands as a valuable water resource in the region, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike to appreciate its beauty and importance.

Years Modified

1976 - Hydraulic, 2017 - Hydraulic

Dam Length

506

Dam Height

13.6

River Or Stream

BUTLER MILL BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

18.24

Drainage Area

8.36

Nid Storage

249

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Vertical Lift - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.