Steenykill Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Steenykill Lake Dam, located in Montague Township, Sussex County, New Jersey, is a state-regulated structure built in 1938 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

This earth and gravity dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans 900 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 37 acre-feet and a surface area of 39 acres. The dam is situated on Steent Brook and is under the jurisdiction of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP).

Despite its picturesque setting and recreational appeal, Steenykill Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed as being in poor condition during its last inspection in October 2020. The dam has an inspection frequency of every two years, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. Additionally, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) has been prepared for the dam, with the last revision in March 2021.

While Steenykill Lake Dam provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities such as fishing and boating, its structural integrity and safety remain key concerns. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to stay informed about the condition of such critical infrastructure to ensure the protection of surrounding communities and the environment. Continued vigilance and adherence to regulatory guidelines are crucial for the ongoing management and maintenance of Steenykill Lake Dam.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

Steent Brook

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

39

Drainage Area

0.56

Nid Storage

37

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.