Indian Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Indian Lake Dam, located in Denville, New Jersey, is a privately owned structure built in 1921 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

This earth-type dam stands at a height of 19 feet and stretches 340 feet in length, holding a storage capacity of 670 acre-feet. The dam overlooks Den Brook and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking, making it a significant hub for local water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Managed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Indian Lake Dam has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in June 2017. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors while contributing to the overall water management system in the region. With a drainage area of 7.4 square miles and a surface area of 88 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding area and supporting diverse aquatic habitats.

As a key feature in the landscape of Morris County, New Jersey, Indian Lake Dam represents a harmonious blend of human recreation and environmental stewardship. Its historical significance, coupled with its modern-day functionality, underscores the importance of responsible dam management in preserving water resources and promoting sustainable recreational activities for future generations. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Indian Lake Dam serves as a prime example of how infrastructure can coexist with nature, creating a balanced ecosystem that benefits both humans and the environment.

Year Completed

1921

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

Den Brook

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

88

Drainage Area

7.4

Nid Storage

670

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

19
       
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.