Yards Creek Upper - Main Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Yards Creek Upper - Main Dam, also known as Kittatinny Mountain Upper Dam, is a captivating structure located in Warren, New Jersey, specifically in the city of Hainesburg.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1965 by Ebasco Services, Inc., this rockfill dam stands at an impressive height of 70 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 4,900 acre-feet. With its primary purpose being hydroelectric power generation, this dam plays a crucial role in harnessing the natural resources of the Yards Creek.

Managed under the jurisdiction of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Yards Creek Upper - Main Dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and reliability. With a high hazard potential and a risk assessment rating of 2, this dam is closely monitored to mitigate any potential risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities in the event of an emergency. Despite the lack of available condition assessment data, efforts are made to maintain and manage this essential water resource infrastructure effectively.

In addition to its functional role in hydroelectric power generation, Yards Creek Upper - Main Dam also serves as a scenic landmark in the Kittatinny Mountain region. Its strategic location and impressive design make it a fascinating site for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike, highlighting the intersection of human ingenuity and natural elements in harnessing the power of water for sustainable energy production.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

8931

Dam Height

70

River Or Stream

Yards Creek

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

160

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

4900

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

70
       
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.