Yards Creek Upper - East Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Yards Creek Upper - East Dike, located in Mount Vernon, New Jersey, is a privately owned earth dam designed by Ebasco Services, Inc.


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Summary

The dam was completed in 1965 for hydroelectric purposes, with a height of 21 feet and a storage capacity of 4900 acre-feet. Situated on Yards Creek, the dam serves as a key infrastructure for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement overseen by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

With a high hazard potential and a risk assessment rating of 2, Yards Creek Upper - East Dike is a critical structure for water resource management in Warren County. Despite limited information on its condition assessment, the dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 2013, indicating a commitment to safety and preparedness. The dam's location and design make it a vital component of the region's hydroelectric infrastructure, contributing to the overall resilience and sustainability of the water resource system.

As a key component of the Philadelphia District's infrastructure, Yards Creek Upper - East Dike plays a crucial role in managing water flow and storage in the region. With a history dating back to 1965, the dam continues to provide important hydroelectric benefits while also posing significant risks in case of failure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance of structures like Yards Creek Upper - East Dike is essential for ensuring the long-term sustainability and safety of our water systems.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

2582

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

Yards Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

160

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

4900

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

21
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.