Lake Como Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Como Dam is classified as high hazard in Delaware. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 years old. 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 | 15 ft (taller than 62.2% in DE) |
| Dam Length | 181 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 369 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 243 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 53 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,180 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1938 (88 years old) |
| NID ID | DE00028 |
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
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High Hazard 18 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Como Dam?
Lake Como 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 Lake Como Dam?
Lake Como Dam is owned by DELDOT (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Como Dam built?
Lake Como Dam was completed in 1938, making it 88 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 Lake Como Dam?
Lake Como 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 Lake Como Dam?
Lake Como Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Lake Como Dam last inspected?
Lake Como Dam was last inspected on June 14, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.