Great Notch Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Great Notch Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1898 and is 128 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 74 ft (taller than 98.7% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 460 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 640 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 537 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 33 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 675 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1898 (128 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00244 |
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
Passaic Valley Water Commission
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Cedar Grove North Res Dam
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High Hazard 51 ftBarbours Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 20 ftNew Street Reservoir Dam
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High Hazard 26 ftCedar Grove West Res Dam
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High Hazard 55 ftHighland Lake Dam
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High Hazard 40 ftCedar Grove South Res Dam
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High Hazard 51 ftYantacaw Brook Dam
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Significant Hazard 8 ftGreat Falls
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Low Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Great Notch Reservoir Dam?
Great Notch 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 Great Notch Reservoir Dam?
Great Notch Reservoir Dam is owned by Passaic Valley Water Commission (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Great Notch Reservoir Dam built?
Great Notch Reservoir Dam was completed in 1898, making it 128 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 Notch Reservoir Dam?
Great Notch Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Great Notch Reservoir Dam?
Great Notch Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 74 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 Notch Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Great Notch Reservoir Dam was last inspected on June 30, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.