Morris Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Morris Lake Dam, located in Sparta Township, Sussex County, New Jersey, is a concrete dam built in 1895 primarily for water supply purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 19 feet and a length of 160 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 2,985 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 2,470 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Wallkill River-TR and is owned and regulated by the local government with oversight from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP).

Despite its age, the condition assessment of Morris Lake Dam is rated as satisfactory, with a high hazard potential. The last inspection was conducted in December 2020, with a frequency of every two years. The dam has not been modified in recent years, and there is no emergency action plan (EAP) in place. The dam's risk assessment, DSAC assignment date, and risk management measures are currently unavailable.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Morris Lake Dam will find its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts intriguing. The dam serves as a vital water supply source for the region and is closely monitored by state and local regulatory agencies to ensure public safety and water security. Its location in a picturesque natural setting adds to the interest for those passionate about sustainable water resource management and the intersection of human infrastructure with the environment.

Year Completed

1895

Dam Length

160

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

Wallkill River-TR

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

157

Drainage Area

1.12

Nid Storage

2985

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

19
       
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.
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