Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Mill Pond Dam in Park Ridge, Bergen County, New Jersey, stands as a key structure on the Pascak Brook, serving primarily for recreational purposes since its completion in 1908.


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Summary

This earth dam reaches a height of 20.6 feet and spans 588 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 22 acre-feet. The dam is state-regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement measures to maintain its satisfactory condition.

Despite its significant hazard potential, Mill Pond Dam has been assessed as structurally sound, with a high-risk potential and an established emergency action plan in place. The dam's location within the Philadelphia District of the US Army Corps of Engineers highlights its importance in managing water resources and mitigating potential risks to downstream communities. With Congressman Josh S. Gottheimer representing the area in Congressional District 05, efforts to ensure the safety and integrity of Mill Pond Dam remain a top priority for local government authorities and environmental agencies.

Water and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the intricate design and historical significance of Mill Pond Dam, which not only provides a recreational oasis in Park Ridge but also plays a crucial role in flood control and water management along the Pascak Brook. As a regulated structure with a focus on safety and environmental compliance, the dam serves as a model for sustainable infrastructure development and proactive risk management in the face of changing climate conditions. The collaborative efforts of state and federal agencies ensure the continued protection and preservation of this vital water resource for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1908

Dam Length

588

Dam Height

20.6

River Or Stream

Pascak Brook

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

14.2

Nid Storage

22

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

21
       
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.