Mccauley Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mccauley Pond Dam, located in Kent County, Delaware, is a state-regulated structure primarily used for fish and wildlife pond purposes.


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Summary

The dam, classified as a gravity type with a height of 19.1 feet, serves as a vital resource for maintaining a normal storage capacity of 485.7 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 1560.5 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 70 feet and a significant hazard potential, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water discharge and ensuring the safety of surrounding areas.

Despite being categorized as having a fair condition assessment, Mccauley Pond Dam is subject to regular inspections every two years to monitor its structural integrity. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment are currently moderate, emphasizing the importance of ongoing risk management measures. Additionally, the dam's association with the Baltimore District of the US Army Corps of Engineers highlights its significance in the larger context of water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

As a key feature in the Browns Branch watershed, Mccauley Pond Dam not only supports recreational activities but also contributes to the preservation of local ecosystems. Its role in enhancing water quality, regulating flow, and providing habitat for various species underscores the interconnectedness of water resources and climate considerations. By staying informed about the dam's maintenance and regulatory status, water resource and climate enthusiasts can actively engage in the protection and sustainable management of this essential infrastructure.

Dam Length

736

Dam Height

19.1

River Or Stream

BROWNS BRANC

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

49.9

Drainage Area

19.4

Nid Storage

1560.5

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
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.