Mcginnis Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mcginnis Pond Dam, located in Kent, Delaware, is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

The dam, classified as a Gravity type with a height of 15.92 feet, plays a crucial role in maintaining a normal storage capacity of 228.3 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 376.4 acre-feet. With a surface area of 40.6 acres and a drainage area of 8.3 square miles, the dam controls the flow of the Hudson Branch river and offers recreational opportunities for the local community.

Despite being in fair condition, the dam has a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating of 1. Emergency action plans have been prepared and updated periodically to ensure public safety in case of emergencies. The dam is equipped with controlled spillways and six outlet gates for efficient water management. With the dam being inspected annually, it is closely monitored for any maintenance or repair needs to prevent potential risks and ensure its structural integrity for the future.

The Mcginnis Pond Dam stands as a vital structure for water resource management and wildlife conservation in the area. Its significance lies in supporting the local ecosystem, providing recreational activities, and safeguarding against potential hazards. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and regulation of such dams become increasingly crucial to adapt to changing environmental conditions and ensure the sustainable use of water for future generations.

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

15.92

River Or Stream

HUDSON BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

40.6

Drainage Area

8.3

Nid Storage

376.4

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 6

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.