Yards Creek Lower - Main Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Yards Creek Lower - Main Dam, also known as Kittatinny Mountain Lower Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Hainesburg, New Jersey.


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Summary

Built in 1965 by Ebasco Services, Inc., this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 55 feet and stretches 1450 feet in length. Its primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, with a storage capacity of 5420 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 8895 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the dam is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety. With a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, emergency action plans are crucial for this structure. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam's controlled spillway with a width of 100 feet helps manage water levels in Yards Creek and mitigate potential risks associated with high water volumes.

Situated within the Philadelphia District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Yards Creek Lower - Main Dam plays a vital role in water resource management and energy production in the region. Its presence signifies the intersection of environmental conservation and sustainable development, highlighting the importance of careful monitoring and maintenance of critical infrastructure in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demands.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1450

Dam Height

55

River Or Stream

Yards Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

310

Drainage Area

4.5

Nid Storage

5420

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

55
       
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.