Wheatley Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wheatley Pond Dam, located in Smyrna, Delaware, is a private-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This gravity dam, standing at 8 feet tall and 420 feet long, holds a maximum storage capacity of 78 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 14 acres. The dam, built on Greens Branch, has a spillway width of 30 feet and is equipped with 6 controlled outlet gates.

Despite its fair condition assessment in 2008, Wheatley Pond Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its location and structural features. The risk assessment indicates a very high risk level (1), highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. While the dam is not regulated by the state, its high hazard potential necessitates close monitoring and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the environment.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change will find Wheatley Pond Dam an intriguing subject for study and discussion. Its unique design and risk profile offer valuable insights into the challenges and considerations involved in managing dams for recreational purposes in a changing climate. As climate-related events become more frequent and severe, understanding the vulnerabilities and risks associated with dams like Wheatley Pond Dam is essential for sustainable water resource management and community safety.

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

GREENS BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

14

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

78

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 6

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.