Skellinger Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Skellinger Lake Dam, located in Sandyston Township, Sussex County, New Jersey, stands as a vital water resource structure along the Spring Cabin Brook.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This state-regulated dam, owned by the state government, serves multiple purposes, including flood control and water storage, with a normal storage capacity of 37 acre-feet. With a dam height of 16 feet and a length of 340 feet, this earth and gravity dam plays a significant role in managing water discharge, with a maximum capacity of 1200 cubic feet per second.

Despite its importance, Skellinger Lake Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection conducted in August 2021 revealed the dam's deteriorating state, prompting a closer monitoring frequency of twice a year. As a result, the dam's emergency action plan and risk assessment are yet to be prepared, raising concerns about its ability to manage potential emergencies effectively. With its essential role in water management and flood control, efforts to improve the dam's condition and emergency response preparedness are crucial for safeguarding both the environment and nearby communities.

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Spring Cabin Brook

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Drainage Area

1.7

Nid Storage

37

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.