Betts Pond Main Dam
Key Takeaway
Betts Pond Main Dam is classified as high hazard in Delaware. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 13 ft (taller than 37.8% in DE) |
| Dam Length | 550 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 328 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 171 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 39 acres |
| Drainage Area | 18 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 696 cfs |
| NID ID | DE00065 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
DELDOT
State Government
Nearby Dams
Betts Pond Route 113 Dam
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High Hazard 11 ftMorris Millpond Dam
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Significant Hazard 10 ftBurton Pond Dam
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High Hazard 10 ftTown of Selbyville Wastewater Lagoon
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High Hazard 12 ftGoslee Mill Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Betts Pond Main Dam?
Betts Pond Main Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Betts Pond Main Dam?
Betts Pond Main Dam is owned by DELDOT (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
What is the primary purpose of Betts Pond Main Dam?
Betts Pond Main Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Betts Pond Main Dam?
Betts Pond Main Dam has a dam height of 13 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Betts Pond Main Dam last inspected?
Betts Pond Main Dam was last inspected on May 12, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.