Morris Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Morris Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1895 and is 131 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 | 19 ft (taller than 70% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 160 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 3.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 157 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 283 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1895 (131 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00306 |
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
Town of Newton
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 19 ftLake Saginaw Dam
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Low Hazard 16 ftBlue Heron Lake Dam
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High Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Morris Lake Dam?
Morris 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 Morris Lake Dam?
Morris Lake Dam is owned by Town of Newton (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Morris Lake Dam built?
Morris Lake Dam was completed in 1895, making it 131 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 Morris Lake Dam?
Morris Lake 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 Morris Lake Dam?
Morris Lake 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 Morris Lake Dam last inspected?
Morris Lake Dam was last inspected on December 7, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.