Openaka Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Openaka Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1750 and is 276 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 20 ft (taller than 72.4% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 250 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 72 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 46 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 9 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1750 (276 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00780 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Alexander Price
Private
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High Hazard 35 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Openaka Lake Dam?
Openaka Lake 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 Openaka Lake Dam?
Openaka Lake Dam is owned by Alexander Price (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Openaka Lake Dam built?
Openaka Lake Dam was completed in 1750, making it 276 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 Openaka Lake Dam?
Openaka 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 Openaka Lake Dam?
Openaka 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 Openaka Lake Dam last inspected?
Openaka Lake Dam was last inspected on October 25, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.