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