Lake Gerard Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Gerard Dam is classified as high hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1930 and is 96 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 | 10 ft (taller than 17.8% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 1,200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 960 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 105 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,150 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1930 (96 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00300 |
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
Lake Gerard, LLC
Private
Nearby Dams
Lake Gerard Dike C
Sussex, NJ
High Hazard 12 ftLake Gerard Dike B
Sussex, NJ
High Hazard 15 ftLake Gerard Dam A
Sussex, NJ
High Hazard 16 ftBeaver Lake Dam
Sussex, NJ
Low Hazard 12 ftSummit Lake Dam
Sussex, NJ
Significant Hazard 5 ftLake Tamarack Dam
Sussex, NJ
High Hazard 10 ftSilver Lake Dam
Sussex, NJ
Low Hazard 11 ftDeer Trail Lake Dam
Sussex, NJ
Significant Hazard 28 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Gerard Dam?
Lake Gerard 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 Gerard Dam?
Lake Gerard Dam is owned by Lake Gerard, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Gerard Dam built?
Lake Gerard Dam was completed in 1930, making it 96 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 Gerard Dam?
Lake Gerard 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 Gerard Dam?
Lake Gerard Dam has a dam height of 10 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 Gerard Dam last inspected?
Lake Gerard Dam was last inspected on June 8, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.