Rainbow Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Rainbow Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1774 and is 252 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 | 900 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Normal Storage | 240 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 80 acres |
| Drainage Area | 53 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1774 (252 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00751 |
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
NJDOT
State Government
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 8 ftBurnt Mill Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 22 ftUnion Lake Dam
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High Hazard 35 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Rainbow Lake Dam?
Rainbow 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 Rainbow Lake Dam?
Rainbow Lake Dam is owned by NJDOT (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Rainbow Lake Dam built?
Rainbow Lake Dam was completed in 1774, making it 252 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 Lake Dam?
Rainbow 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 Rainbow Lake Dam?
Rainbow 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 Rainbow Lake Dam last inspected?
Rainbow Lake Dam was last inspected on April 20, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.