Sylva Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Sylva Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1923 and is 103 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 10 ft (taller than 17.8% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 475 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Normal Storage | 30 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 11 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,466 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1923 (103 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00391 |
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
The College of New Jersey
State Government
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Low Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sylva Lake Dam?
Sylva 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 Sylva Lake Dam?
Sylva Lake Dam is owned by The College of New Jersey (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sylva Lake Dam built?
Sylva Lake Dam was completed in 1923, making it 103 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 Sylva Lake Dam?
Sylva 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 Sylva Lake Dam?
Sylva Lake Dam has a dam height of 10 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 Sylva Lake Dam last inspected?
Sylva Lake Dam was last inspected on October 19, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.