Packanack Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Packanack Lake Dam, located in Wayne Township, New Jersey, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1921 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 2300 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 1115 acre-feet. Situated on Packanack Brook, the dam serves as a vital component for the community, offering a surface area of 84 acres for recreational activities such as boating and fishing.

Despite its age, Packanack Lake Dam has been regularly inspected and deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in September 2019. With a high hazard potential, the dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). It is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor the dam's safety and maintenance protocols to ensure the continued protection of the surrounding area and residents in case of emergencies.

As a focal point for recreation and water resource management in the region, Packanack Lake Dam plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem and community. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and safeguarding water resources for both present and future generations. Enthusiasts in the field of water resources and climate will find Packanack Lake Dam to be a fascinating case study of dam infrastructure and management in the context of changing environmental conditions and regulatory frameworks.

Year Completed

1921

Dam Length

2300

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Packanack Brook

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

84

Drainage Area

1.88

Nid Storage

1115

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

15
       
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.