Rainbow Dam
Key Takeaway
Rainbow Dam is classified as high hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 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 | 13 ft (taller than 39.5% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 700 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Normal Storage | 55 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 43 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 223 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1938 (88 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00092 |
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
Township of Brick
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Rainbow Dam?
Rainbow 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 Rainbow Dam?
Rainbow Dam is owned by Township of Brick (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Rainbow Dam built?
Rainbow Dam was completed in 1938, making it 88 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 Rainbow Dam?
Rainbow 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 Rainbow Dam?
Rainbow Dam has a dam height of 13 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 Rainbow Dam last inspected?
Rainbow Dam was last inspected on October 6, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.