Oradell Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Oradell Reservoir Dam, located in New Milford, New Jersey, was completed in 1922 and stands at a height of 25 feet.


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Summary

The primary purpose of this earth dam is water supply, with a storage capacity of 10,740 acre-feet. The reservoir, situated on the Hackensack River, covers a surface area of 796 acres and serves as a vital source of water for the surrounding region.

Managed by a private owner, Oradell Reservoir Dam is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety. The dam has a high hazard potential and was rated in fair condition during its last assessment in June 2021. With a drainage area of 112 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the area.

Despite its age, Oradell Reservoir Dam continues to fulfill its essential function of providing a reliable water supply to the community. As a key infrastructure in the region, its maintenance and monitoring are essential to safeguarding water resources and adapting to the challenges posed by climate change. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will find Oradell Reservoir Dam to be a fascinating example of sustainable water management in action.

Year Completed

1922

Dam Length

402

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

Hackensack River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

796

Drainage Area

112

Nid Storage

10740

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

25
       
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.