Oradell Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Oradell Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1922 and is 104 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 | 25 ft (taller than 85% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 402 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Normal Storage | 10.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 796 acres |
| Drainage Area | 112 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 13,600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1922 (104 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00258 |
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
SUEZ Water New Jersey, Inc.
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Oradell Reservoir Dam?
Oradell Reservoir 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 Oradell Reservoir Dam?
Oradell Reservoir Dam is owned by SUEZ Water New Jersey, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Oradell Reservoir Dam built?
Oradell Reservoir Dam was completed in 1922, making it 104 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 Oradell Reservoir Dam?
Oradell Reservoir 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 Oradell Reservoir Dam?
Oradell Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 25 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 Oradell Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Oradell Reservoir Dam was last inspected on October 21, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.