Pines Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Pines Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1927 and is 99 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 | 42 ft (taller than 95.6% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 127 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 144 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,980 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1927 (99 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00250 |
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
Pines Lake Association
Private
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Low Hazard 22 ftLower Twin Lakes Dam
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Significant Hazard 10 ftUpper Twin Lakes Dam
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Low Hazard 7 ftRamapo Lake Dam
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High Hazard 13 ftCrystal Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Pines Lake Dam?
Pines 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 Pines Lake Dam?
Pines Lake Dam is owned by Pines Lake Association (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Pines Lake Dam built?
Pines Lake Dam was completed in 1927, making it 99 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 Pines Lake Dam?
Pines 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 Pines Lake Dam?
Pines Lake Dam has a dam height of 42 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 Pines Lake Dam last inspected?
Pines Lake Dam was last inspected on December 3, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.