Wolf Den Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Wolf Den Dam, located in Wanaque, New Jersey, on the Wanaque River, was completed in 1927 and serves as a recreational spot for water enthusiasts in the area.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 42 feet and has a length of 2160 feet, providing a storage capacity of 81,730 acre-feet with a surface area of 2310 acres. With its concrete structure, the dam is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.

The dam has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in October 2021. Emergency action plans are in place, although details on their specifics are not provided. While the dam does not have flood inundation maps prepared or a risk assessment documented, it remains a significant water resource management infrastructure in the region. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, attracting visitors for activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

Representing a fusion of engineering and natural beauty, Wolf Den Dam exemplifies the importance of water resource management in sustaining both recreational opportunities and environmental conservation efforts. As a state-owned structure within the Philadelphia District, the dam showcases the collaboration between government agencies and local communities to ensure the safety and enjoyment of water resources. Its historical significance, coupled with its functional design, makes Wolf Den Dam a notable landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

2160

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

Wanaque River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

2310

Drainage Area

90.4

Nid Storage

81730

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

42
       
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.