Fox Lake Dam, located in Rockaway Borough, Morris County, New Jersey, is a significant local government-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1926, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 160 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 97 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Foxs Brook and is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), with inspections conducted regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Fox Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. The last inspection in October 2019 revealed the need for improvements to bring the dam up to standard and reduce risks associated with potential failure. Emergency action plans are crucial for such dams, yet details on the EAP status and risk management measures for Fox Lake Dam are currently unavailable. With a maximum discharge capacity of 37 cubic feet per second and a drainage area of 1.2 square miles, the dam's impact on the surrounding environment and community underscores the importance of proactive maintenance and risk mitigation efforts.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Fox Lake Dam presents a case study in balancing recreational benefits with safety concerns and environmental impacts. With ongoing assessments and potential upgrades, this dam serves as a reminder of the critical role that infrastructure plays in water management and the need for sustainable practices to safeguard against potential hazards in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1926 |
Dam Length |
160 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
Foxs Brook |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Drainage Area |
1.2 |
Nid Storage |
97 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
22 |