Spruce Run Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Spruce Run Reservoir Dam in Clinton Township, New Jersey, stands as a crucial structure for water supply, completed in 1964 with a height of 93 feet and a length of 5400 feet.


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Summary

The dam serves primarily for water supply purposes, holding a maximum storage capacity of 46,770 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 1290 acres. Situated on the Spruce Run River, this earth and gravity dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its significant role, the Spruce Run Reservoir Dam faces challenges with a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, last inspected in December 2021. The dam's emergency action plan is yet to be fully prepared, raising concerns about its readiness in case of potential emergencies. With a history of modifications and improvements, the dam's risk management measures and overall structural integrity are critical aspects that require continuous monitoring and evaluation to ensure the safety and reliability of this essential water infrastructure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of the Spruce Run Reservoir Dam in maintaining water supply and managing risks associated with its operation is essential. The dam's location in Hunterdon County, New Jersey, underlines its strategic importance in the region's water management system, highlighting the need for active involvement in its maintenance and upkeep to safeguard the community's water resources and ensure long-term sustainability in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

5400

Dam Height

93

River Or Stream

Spruce Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1290

Drainage Area

41.3

Nid Storage

46770

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

93
       
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.