Matawan Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Matawan Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1923 and is 103 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 | 20 ft (taller than 72.4% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 275 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 275 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 200 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 28 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 800 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1923 (103 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00086 |
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
Borough of Matawan
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Matawan Lake Dam?
Matawan Lake 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 Matawan Lake Dam?
Matawan Lake Dam is owned by Borough of Matawan (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Matawan Lake Dam built?
Matawan Lake Dam was completed in 1923, making it 103 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 Matawan Lake Dam?
Matawan Lake 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 Matawan Lake Dam?
Matawan Lake Dam has a dam height of 20 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 Matawan Lake Dam last inspected?
Matawan Lake Dam was last inspected on April 28, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.