Watts Farm Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Watts Farm Pond, located in Hanesville, Maryland, is a privately owned irrigation pond that serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife habitat.


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Summary

Built in 1977 with a dam height of 16 feet and a length of 570 feet, the pond has a maximum storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and covers an area of 8.4 acres. The dam is primarily of earth construction with a buttress core design and is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Watts Farm Pond is considered to be in good condition and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being uncontrolled, the pond's spillway width of 30 feet allows for a maximum discharge of 300 cubic feet per second. The pond's drainage area is 0.23 square miles, with the water source coming from Mill Creek.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Watts Farm Pond offers a unique opportunity to study the intersection of water management, wildlife conservation, and agricultural practices. Its location in the Kent County of Maryland and its association with the Natural Resources Conservation Service make it a valuable case study for understanding the complexities of maintaining a man-made water feature in a rural environment. With its diverse ecosystem and vital role in supporting local irrigation needs, Watts Farm Pond stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of increasing climate challenges.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

570

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Mill Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.4

Drainage Area

0.23

Nid Storage

60

Hazard Potential

Low

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.