Lake Gerard Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Gerard Dike C Lake Gerard Dike B
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Lake Gerard Dam, located in Franklin, New Jersey, is a private earth dam constructed in 1930 primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 10 feet and spans 1200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 1157 acre-feet. Situated on Franklin Pond Creek, the dam serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 960 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 2150 cubic feet per second.
Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of July 2020, Lake Gerard Dam poses a high hazard potential, prompting biennial inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's emergency action plan remains unprepared as of the last review in June 2011, raising concerns about effective risk management measures in case of a potential breach. With the oversight of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, the dam's regulatory compliance, inspection frequency, and enforcement mechanisms are in place to mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.
Lake Gerard Dam serves as a significant recreational feature in Sussex, New Jersey, offering opportunities for water-based activities and scenic views. As an earth dam along Franklin Pond Creek, its preservation and maintenance are crucial for water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region. With a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, Lake Gerard Dam remains a valuable asset for the community, highlighting the intersection of water infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and recreational enjoyment.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
1200 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
Franklin Pond Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
105 |
Drainage Area |
1.9 |
Nid Storage |
1157 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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