Spooky Brook Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Spooky Brook Dam, located in Somerset, New Jersey, is a significant earth dam completed in 1971 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 21 feet and a length of 300 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 126 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 20 acres. It is situated along the Delaware-Raritan Canal, providing a serene backdrop for outdoor activities and water-related recreation.

Despite its recreational appeal, Spooky Brook Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in November 2019 highlighted the need for improvements to ensure its safety and stability. Managed by the local government, the dam falls under the regulatory oversight of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to monitor its operations.

Given its historical significance and environmental impact, Spooky Brook Dam serves as a vital water resource in the region, supporting various aquatic ecosystems and recreational activities. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water management, there is a growing need for proactive measures to address the dam's structural integrity and ensure its long-term sustainability. Enthusiasts and stakeholders alike are encouraged to stay informed and engaged in the ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance this important infrastructure for future generations.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

Delaware - Raritan Canal-

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Drainage Area

35

Nid Storage

126

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

21
       
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.