Sunset Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Sunset 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 | 20 ft (taller than 72.4% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 6,200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Normal Storage | 310 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 94 acres |
| Drainage Area | 46 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 5,400 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1927 (99 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00063 |
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
County of Cumberland
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Mary Elmer Lake Dam
Cumberland, NJ
Significant Hazard 15 ftSunset Lake Raceway Dam
Cumberland, NJ
Low Hazard 11 ftEast Lake Dam
Cumberland, NJ
High Hazard 17 ftSilver Lake Dam
Cumberland, NJ
Low Hazard 12 ftClarks Pond Dam
Cumberland, NJ
Low Hazard 9 ftElk Lake Dam
Cumberland, NJ
Low Hazard 10 ftBostwicks Pond Dam
Cumberland, NJ
Significant Hazard 13 ftSheppards Mill Pond Dam
Cumberland, NJ
Low Hazard 18 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sunset Lake Dam?
Sunset 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 Sunset Lake Dam?
Sunset Lake Dam is owned by County of Cumberland (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sunset Lake Dam built?
Sunset 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 Sunset Lake Dam?
Sunset 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 Sunset Lake Dam?
Sunset 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 Sunset Lake Dam last inspected?
Sunset Lake Dam was last inspected on October 28, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.