Lake Erskine Dam, located in Ringwood Borough, New Jersey, stands as a significant earth dam completed in 1930 for the primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
The dam boasts a height of 10 feet and a length of 200 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 1047 acre-feet. Despite its impressive size, the dam's condition assessment is marked as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and potential hazard mitigation. The dam's last inspection in April 2020 revealed its significant hazard potential, prompting a thorough examination of its structural integrity and emergency action plan readiness.
The dam's ownership lies in private hands, under the jurisdiction of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) for regulatory oversight. With a drainage area of 0.8 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 126 cubic feet per second, Lake Erskine Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the Passaic County region. As a popular recreational spot, the dam's surface area of 80 acres provides a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy various outdoor activities. However, ongoing monitoring and upkeep are essential to ensure the dam's continued safety and functionality for both recreational and water resource management purposes.
As climate change impacts continue to affect water resources and infrastructure resilience, Lake Erskine Dam serves as a focal point for environmental and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management practices. The dam's poor condition assessment and significant hazard potential underscore the importance of proactive maintenance and risk mitigation strategies to safeguard the surrounding community and ecosystem. Collaboration between private owners, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders will be crucial in ensuring the long-term viability of Lake Erskine Dam as a vital water resource and recreational asset in New Jersey's landscape.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
Wanaque River-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
80 |
Drainage Area |
0.8 |
Nid Storage |
1047 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
10 |