Williams Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Williams Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Delaware. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 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 | 14 ft (taller than 50% in DE) |
| Dam Length | 498 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 800 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 413 acres |
| Drainage Area | 23 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 636 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1956 (70 years old) |
| NID ID | DE00064 |
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 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Williams Pond Dam?
Williams 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 Williams Pond Dam?
Williams Pond Dam is owned by DELDOT (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Williams Pond Dam built?
Williams Pond Dam was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 Williams Pond Dam?
Williams Pond 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 Williams Pond Dam?
Williams 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 Williams Pond Dam last inspected?
Williams Pond Dam was last inspected on April 13, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.