Tennents Brook Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Deep Run Dam Duhernal Dam
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Tennents Brook Dam, located in Old Bridge, New Jersey, was completed in 1890 and serves as a vital water resource for the area.
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Summary
The dam, primarily used for recreation, is an earth type structure standing at 9 feet with a length of 600 feet. It has a storage capacity of 340 acre-feet and a drainage area of 9.7 square miles, with a maximum discharge rate of 267 cubic feet per second. Despite its historical significance, the dam's condition assessment in 2008 reported it as poor, with a low hazard potential.
The dam is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, undergoing regular inspections every 4 years to ensure its integrity and safety. With its location along Tennents Brook, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting against potential flooding in the surrounding area. Although it has faced challenges in terms of its condition, the dam continues to be a key feature for recreational activities and environmental conservation efforts in Middlesex County.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Tennents Brook Dam become increasingly important. With a focus on risk management measures and emergency preparedness, efforts are being made to address the dam's poor condition and ensure its long-term stability. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience, it is crucial to monitor and support the maintenance of critical infrastructure like Tennents Brook Dam to safeguard water sources and mitigate the effects of extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1890 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
Tennents Brook |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
50 |
Drainage Area |
9.7 |
Nid Storage |
340 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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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