Harrisville Dam

Wading River· Burlington, New Jersey· Built 1932· Earth· 13 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation State Government

Key Takeaway

Harrisville Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1932 and is 94 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 13 ft (taller than 39.5% in NJ)
Dam Length350 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Normal Storage269 acre-ft
Surface Area40 acres
Drainage Area64 sq mi
Max Discharge3,940 cfs
Year Completed1932 (94 years old)
NID IDNJ00045

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: November 24, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NJDEP

Ownership

Division of Parks and Forestry

State Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Harrisville Dam?

Harrisville 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 Harrisville Dam?

Harrisville Dam is owned by Division of Parks and Forestry (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Harrisville Dam built?

Harrisville Dam was completed in 1932, making it 94 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 Harrisville Dam?

Harrisville 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 Harrisville Dam?

Harrisville Dam has a dam height of 13 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 Harrisville Dam last inspected?

Harrisville Dam was last inspected on November 24, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.