Packanack Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Packanack Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1921 and is 105 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 | 15 ft (taller than 51.4% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 2,300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 460 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 84 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 740 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1921 (105 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00239 |
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
Packanack Lake Country Club & Community Assoc.
Private
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High Hazard 30 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Packanack Lake Dam?
Packanack 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 Packanack Lake Dam?
Packanack Lake Dam is owned by Packanack Lake Country Club & Community Assoc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Packanack Lake Dam built?
Packanack Lake Dam was completed in 1921, making it 105 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 Packanack Lake Dam?
Packanack 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 Packanack Lake Dam?
Packanack Lake Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Packanack Lake Dam last inspected?
Packanack Lake Dam was last inspected on September 15, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.