Porter Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Porter Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Delaware. It was completed in 1909 and is 117 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 12 ft (taller than 29.3% in DE) |
| Dam Length | 2,160 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 114 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 103 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 18 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1909 (117 years old) |
| NID ID | DE00013 |
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
CITY OF WILMINGTON
Local Government
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Low Hazard 32 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Porter Reservoir Dam?
Porter Reservoir 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 Porter Reservoir Dam?
Porter Reservoir Dam is owned by CITY OF WILMINGTON (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Porter Reservoir Dam built?
Porter Reservoir Dam was completed in 1909, making it 117 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 Porter Reservoir Dam?
Porter Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Porter Reservoir Dam?
Porter Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Porter Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Porter Reservoir Dam was last inspected on October 16, 2000. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.