Upper Highland Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Upper Highland Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 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 | 18 ft (taller than 66.3% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 311 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 88 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 47 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 12 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 416 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1940 (86 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00797 |
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
Highland Lakes Country Club and Community Assoc.
Private
Nearby Dams
Upper West Highland Lake Dam
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High Hazard 13 ftHighland Lakes Dam
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High Hazard 22 ftEast Highland Lake Dam
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Significant Hazard 15 ftLake Wanda Dam
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Low Hazard 7 ftHidden Valley Lake Dam
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High Hazard 10 ftUpper East Highland Lake Dam
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Significant Hazard 15 ftSouth Barry Lake Dike
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Significant Hazard 6 ftLake Conway Dam
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Significant Hazard 21 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Upper Highland Lake Dam?
Upper Highland 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 Upper Highland Lake Dam?
Upper Highland Lake Dam is owned by Highland Lakes Country Club and Community Assoc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Upper Highland Lake Dam built?
Upper Highland Lake Dam was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Upper Highland Lake Dam?
Upper Highland 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 Upper Highland Lake Dam?
Upper Highland Lake Dam has a dam height of 18 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 Upper Highland Lake Dam last inspected?
Upper Highland Lake Dam was last inspected on December 9, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.