Westons Arch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Westons Arch Dam, located in New Brunswick, New Jersey, is a concrete arch dam that was completed in 1919 for the primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

With a height of 17 feet and a length of 248 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 1,600 acre-feet and serves the Lawrence Brook river. The dam is owned by the local government and is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition as of the last inspection in December 2019. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in April 2020, indicating ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. With a drainage area of 42 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 2,290 cubic feet per second, Westons Arch Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and providing recreational opportunities for the surrounding community.

Westons Arch Dam stands as a historic landmark in Middlesex County, serving as a vital component of the region's water infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the dam's role in water supply and flood control becomes increasingly important. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will find Westons Arch Dam to be a fascinating example of engineering ingenuity and the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and sustainability of our water infrastructure.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

248

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

Lawrence Brook

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

160

Drainage Area

42

Nid Storage

1600

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

17
       
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.