Clarks Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Clarks Pond Dam, located in Fairfield Township, Cumberland County, New Jersey, is a state-regulated earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This dam, situated on Mill Creek, has a height of 9 feet and a length of 600 feet, creating a storage capacity of 172 acre-feet and a surface area of 45 acres. The dam's maximum discharge capacity is 288 cubic feet per second, with a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated".

Although the last inspection of Clarks Pond Dam was conducted in January 2001, with an inspection frequency of 4 years, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and risk assessment information are currently unavailable. Despite these gaps in data, the dam's low hazard potential suggests a lower risk level for downstream communities and infrastructure. The dam is not owned or funded by any federal agencies and falls under the jurisdiction of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) for regulatory oversight, permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Clarks Pond Dam, its location, design, and purpose offer a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of water management, recreation, and dam safety in New Jersey. With its scenic surroundings and historical significance, this state-regulated dam on Mill Creek serves as a reminder of the importance of proper infrastructure maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources for future generations.

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

Mill Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

45

Drainage Area

7

Nid Storage

172

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
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.