Durham Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Durham Pond Dam, located in Morris County, New Jersey, serves as a vital recreational resource for the community.


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Summary

This private earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and spans 800 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 132 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2018 revealed poor conditions, prompting the need for maintenance and improvements to ensure its long-term safety and functionality.

Managed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), Durham Pond Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement measures. The dam, situated along Beaver Brook-TR, not only offers recreational opportunities but also plays a role in managing stormwater and providing wildlife habitat in the area. With its proximity to Rockaway Township, the dam is a key feature in the local landscape and contributes to the environmental and social well-being of the region.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and enhancement of dams like Durham Pond Dam become increasingly important. With proper oversight and investment, this dam can continue to fulfill its primary purpose of recreation while also addressing the evolving challenges posed by a changing climate. Efforts to improve the dam's condition and resilience will be crucial in safeguarding its role in water resource management and community enjoyment for years to come.

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

Beaver Brook-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

46

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

132

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
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.