East Branch Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
East Branch Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1905 and is 121 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 | 33 ft (taller than 92.3% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 142 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 55 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 77 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 9 acres |
| Drainage Area | 11 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,675 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1905 (121 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00373 |
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
County of Somerset
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of East Branch Reservoir Dam?
East Branch 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 East Branch Reservoir Dam?
East Branch Reservoir Dam is owned by County of Somerset (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was East Branch Reservoir Dam built?
East Branch Reservoir Dam was completed in 1905, making it 121 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 East Branch Reservoir Dam?
East Branch Reservoir 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 East Branch Reservoir Dam?
East Branch Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 33 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 East Branch Reservoir Dam last inspected?
East Branch Reservoir Dam was last inspected on January 8, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.