Saxton Falls Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Saxton Falls Dam, located in Mount Olive Township, Morris County, New Jersey, stands as a vital water resource structure on the Musconctcong River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1927, this earth dam serves a primary purpose of recreation, offering a serene spot for visitors to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. With a height of 16 feet and a length of 235 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 64 acres.

Managed by the state regulatory agency NJDEP, Saxton Falls Dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has been assessed as satisfactory, but its hazard potential is classified as high, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance. In case of emergencies, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) may be prepared to guide responses and ensure public safety.

The presence of Saxton Falls Dam not only contributes to the recreational opportunities in the area but also plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks along the Musconctcong River. As climate change continues to impact water systems, structures like Saxton Falls Dam will be essential in safeguarding communities and ecosystems in the region.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

235

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Musconctcong River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

64

Drainage Area

68

Nid Storage

400

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

16
       
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.