List of dams and reservoirs in Delaware facts for kids

Dams and reservoirs are super important structures that help us manage water! A dam is like a big wall built across a river or stream. It holds back water, creating a large artificial lake called a reservoir. These reservoirs store water for many uses, like drinking water for cities, watering crops, and even making electricity.

In Delaware, dams and reservoirs play a key role in providing clean water to communities. They also help control floods and create places for fun activities like fishing and boating.

What are Dams and Reservoirs?

A dam is a strong barrier built across a river. Its main job is to hold back water. Think of it like a giant plug in a bathtub! When a dam holds back water, it forms a large body of water behind it. This artificial lake is called a reservoir.

Reservoirs are like huge storage tanks for water. They collect water during rainy seasons or when snow melts. This stored water can then be used throughout the year, even when there isn't much rain.

Why are Dams and Reservoirs Important?

Dams and reservoirs serve many important purposes:

• Drinking Water: They store fresh water that is cleaned and sent to homes and businesses.
• Irrigation: Water from reservoirs helps farmers water their crops, especially in dry times.
• Flood Control: Dams can hold back extra water during heavy rains. This stops rivers from overflowing and flooding nearby towns.
• Electricity: Some dams have power plants that use the force of falling water to create electricity. This is called hydroelectric power.
• Recreation: Many reservoirs are popular spots for fishing, boating, and swimming.

What Makes a Dam "Major"?

The United States has a special list called the National Inventory of Dams. It helps keep track of important dams. A dam is considered "major" if it meets certain size requirements. For example, a dam might be called "major" if it is about 15 meters (50 feet) tall and can hold a lot of water. Or, it could be any height but able to store a really huge amount of water, like enough to fill 25,000 football fields one foot deep!

Dams and Reservoirs in Delaware

Delaware might be a small state, but it still has important dams and reservoirs that help manage its water resources. Here are some of them:

• Bellevue Lake: This is a reservoir that helps manage water in the northern part of Delaware. It's part of the state's water system.
• Edgar M. Hoopes Dam and Hoopes Reservoir: Located near Wilmington, Delaware, this dam creates the Hoopes Reservoir. This reservoir is a very important source of drinking water for the city of Wilmington and its surrounding areas.
• Newark Reservoir: The city of Newark, Delaware also relies on its own reservoir system. This system includes multiple dams that help store water for the city's residents.
• Cubbage Pond: This reservoir is found on Cedar Creek in Sussex County, Delaware. It helps manage water flow and supply in the southern part of the state.

These dams and reservoirs are vital for making sure that people in Delaware have enough clean water for their daily lives. They also help protect communities from floods and support local ecosystems.

See also

• List of dam removals in Delaware