Union Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Union Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1869 and is 157 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 | 35 ft (taller than 93.2% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 2,000 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 20.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 11.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 850 acres |
| Drainage Area | 218 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 36,530 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1869 (157 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00448 |
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
Division of Fish & Wildlife
State Government
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Significant Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Union Lake Dam?
Union 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 Union Lake Dam?
Union Lake Dam is owned by Division of Fish & Wildlife (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Union Lake Dam built?
Union Lake Dam was completed in 1869, making it 157 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 Union Lake Dam?
Union 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 Union Lake Dam?
Union Lake Dam has a dam height of 35 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 Union Lake Dam last inspected?
Union Lake Dam was last inspected on November 9, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.