Raymond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Raymond Dam, located in Wanaque Borough, New Jersey, was completed in 1928 and serves as a crucial water supply infrastructure for the region.


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Summary

The dam stands at 103 feet high and spans a length of 1603 feet, with a storage capacity of 90,937 acre-feet. Situated on the Wanaque River, the dam plays a significant role in regulating water flow and ensuring a stable water supply for the surrounding areas.

Managed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), Raymond Dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with emergency action plans in place. The dam's primary purpose of water supply underscores its critical importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

With its earth and gravity dam types, Raymond Dam represents a significant engineering feat that has stood the test of time. As the region faces increasing challenges from climate change and water resource management, Raymond Dam continues to play a key role in safeguarding water supply and mitigating risks associated with flooding. Its strategic location and operational efficiency make it a vital asset for water enthusiasts and climate advocates alike, highlighting the intersection of infrastructure, water resources, and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

1603

Dam Height

103

River Or Stream

Wanaque River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2590

Drainage Area

90.4

Nid Storage

90937

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

103
       
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.