Chipman Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Chipman Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Delaware. It was completed in 1915 and is 111 years old. Its primary use is fish and wildlife pond. 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 | 14 ft (taller than 50% in DE) |
| Dam Length | 705 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 438 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 183 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 57 acres |
| Drainage Area | 17 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 167 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1915 (111 years old) |
| NID ID | DE00055 |
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;DNREC DFW
State Government
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High Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Chipman Pond Dam?
Chipman Pond 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 Chipman Pond Dam?
Chipman Pond Dam is owned by DELDOT;DNREC DFW (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Chipman Pond Dam built?
Chipman Pond Dam was completed in 1915, making it 111 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Chipman Pond Dam?
Chipman Pond Dam serves the following purposes: Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Chipman Pond Dam?
Chipman Pond Dam has a dam height of 14 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 Chipman Pond Dam last inspected?
Chipman Pond Dam was last inspected on April 13, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.