Great Falls
Key Takeaway
Great Falls is classified as low hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1840 and is 186 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 12 ft (taller than 31.2% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 325 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 1.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 202 acres |
| Drainage Area | 785 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 23,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1840 (186 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00663 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Paterson Municipal Utilities Authority
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 6 ftBeatties Mill Dam
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Low Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Great Falls?
Great Falls is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Great Falls?
Great Falls is owned by Paterson Municipal Utilities Authority (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Great Falls built?
Great Falls was completed in 1840, making it 186 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 Great Falls?
Great Falls serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Great Falls?
Great Falls 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 Great Falls last inspected?
Great Falls was last inspected on May 2, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.