Echo Lake Intake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

The Echo Lake Intake Dam, located in Kinnelon, New Jersey, plays a vital role in water supply management in the area.


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Summary

This earth-type dam was completed in 1926 and stands at a height of 32 feet, with a length of 370 feet. It has a storage capacity of 7,686 acre-feet and serves the purpose of water supply for the surrounding community. The dam is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

Situated on the Macopin River, the Echo Lake Intake Dam is owned and operated by the local government of Passaic County. With a drainage area of 2.7 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 93 cubic feet per second, the dam provides essential water resources for the region. Despite being classified as a high hazard potential structure, the dam is currently in fair condition according to the latest assessment conducted in April 2021. Emergency action plans are in place to mitigate any potential risks associated with the dam.

As a significant water management infrastructure in New Jersey, the Echo Lake Intake Dam serves as a critical component of the local water supply system. Its historical significance, combined with its ongoing regulatory oversight and maintenance, underscores the importance of ensuring the dam's continued operation and safety for the community. With a dedicated emergency response plan and regular inspections, the dam remains a key asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

370

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

Macopin River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

282

Drainage Area

2.7

Nid Storage

7686

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

32
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.