Washington Forge Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Washington Forge Pond Dam, located in the Borough of Wharton, New Jersey, stands as a significant recreational structure along the Rockaway River.


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Summary

Built in 1890, this earth dam has a height of 10 feet and spans 710 feet in length, offering a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet. With a normal storage level of 63 acre-feet, the dam serves as a vital resource for the surrounding community, covering a surface area of 12 acres and draining a catchment area of 29.1 square miles.

Managed by the local government, Washington Forge Pond Dam is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring that it meets all safety and inspection requirements. The dam has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition, with a significant hazard potential, prompting a biennial inspection schedule. While the dam has not undergone any significant modifications in recent years, its emergency action plan was last revised in 2015, indicating a commitment to proactive risk management and safety measures.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and monitoring of structures like Washington Forge Pond Dam are vital for ensuring public safety and environmental protection. With its historical significance and recreational value, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

710

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

Rockaway River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

29.1

Nid Storage

96

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.