Herzenberg Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Herzenberg Dam, located in Woodbourne, New Jersey, stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1960 for recreational purposes, this private earth dam on Papakating Creek-TR boasts a height of 16 feet and a length of 370 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet. The dam's low hazard potential is complemented by its not rated condition assessment, reflecting a commitment to safety and maintenance.

Managed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Herzenberg Dam is subject to state regulations and inspections, ensuring that it meets stringent standards for structural integrity and emergency preparedness. Despite its relatively low risk profile, the dam's location in Sussex County underscores the importance of vigilance in the face of evolving climate challenges. With a drainage area of 2.4 square miles and a maximum discharge of 371 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding downstream communities from flooding events.

As climate change continues to impact water resources across the region, Herzenberg Dam serves as a vital resource for both recreation and flood control. With a surface area of 21 acres and a normal storage capacity of 113 acre-feet, the dam exemplifies the balance between human enjoyment of natural resources and the need for sustainable water management practices. As stakeholders work towards enhancing the dam's risk management measures and emergency response protocols, Herzenberg Dam stands as a model for proactive adaptation in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

370

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Papakating Creek-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21

Drainage Area

2.4

Nid Storage

180

Hazard Potential

Low

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.