Green Turtle Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Green Turtle Pond Dam, located in West Milford Township, New Jersey, is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, made of earth and gravity, stands at a height of 35 feet and has a length of 305 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 251 acre-feet. Situated on the Wanaque River-TR, the dam poses a high hazard potential but was assessed to be in fair condition as of August 2020.

Managed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), Green Turtle Pond Dam undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. With a drainage area of 0.5 square miles and a surface area of 28 acres, the dam provides recreational opportunities for the surrounding community while also serving as a vital water resource in the region. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition is monitored and maintained to mitigate risks and protect downstream areas.

Congressional District 05 in New Jersey, represented by Congressman Josh S. Gottheimer, oversees the jurisdiction of Green Turtle Pond Dam. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are currently under review, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance preparedness and safety protocols. As a key infrastructure asset in the area, Green Turtle Pond Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience initiatives, highlighting the importance of sustainable dam operations and maintenance practices.

Dam Length

305

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

Wanaque River-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

251

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

35
       
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.