Bells Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Bells Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1928 and is 98 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 22 ft (taller than 79.5% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 343 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 125 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 31 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1928 (98 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00405 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Greenwood Park Bell's Lake Comm. Club
Private
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Significant Hazard 9 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bells Lake Dam?
Bells Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Bells Lake Dam?
Bells Lake Dam is owned by Greenwood Park Bell's Lake Comm. Club (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bells Lake Dam built?
Bells Lake Dam was completed in 1928, making it 98 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 Bells Lake Dam?
Bells Lake 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 Bells Lake Dam?
Bells Lake Dam has a dam height of 22 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 Bells Lake Dam last inspected?
Bells Lake Dam was last inspected on April 10, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.