Lake Estling Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Estling Dam is classified as high hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1870 and is 156 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 | 19 ft (taller than 70% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 1,628 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 358 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 75 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 5,700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1870 (156 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00184 |
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
Estling Lake Corporation
Private
Nearby Dams
Holstein Lake Dam
Morris, NJ
Low Hazard 15 ftIndian Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 19 ftLake Lenore Dam
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Low Hazard 12 ftPowder Mill Pond Dam
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High Hazard 35 ftLake Arrowhead Dam
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Significant Hazard 8 ftFox Lake Dam
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High Hazard 22 ftRainbow Lakes Dam
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High Hazard 11 ftCedar Lake Dam
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Significant Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Estling Dam?
Lake Estling 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 Lake Estling Dam?
Lake Estling Dam is owned by Estling Lake Corporation (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Estling Dam built?
Lake Estling Dam was completed in 1870, making it 156 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 Lake Estling Dam?
Lake Estling 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 Lake Estling Dam?
Lake Estling Dam has a dam height of 19 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 Lake Estling Dam last inspected?
Lake Estling Dam was last inspected on March 26, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.