Farrington Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Farrington Dam, located in Middlesex, New Jersey, was completed in 1926 and serves as a vital water supply structure along the Lawrence Brook.


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Summary

Owned and regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, this concrete dam stands at a height of 34 feet and has a storage capacity of 3,140 acre-feet. With a surface area of 211 acres and a drainage area of 34.4 square miles, Farrington Dam plays a crucial role in supplying water to the surrounding area.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Farrington Dam has been inspected regularly, with the last assessment conducted in December 2019. The dam's emergency action plan is up to date, with the last revision in April 2020, ensuring that proper measures are in place in case of any unforeseen events. With a maximum discharge capacity of 55 cubic feet per second, Farrington Dam is equipped to handle high water levels and contribute to the overall water management system in Eastern Brunswick Township.

As a key structure in the region's water supply infrastructure, Farrington Dam stands as a testament to the importance of proper regulation and maintenance in ensuring the safety and reliability of water resources in New Jersey. With its historical significance and vital role in water management, Farrington Dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the intersection of engineering, environmental stewardship, and public safety in safeguarding our natural resources.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

535

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

Lawrence Brook

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

211

Drainage Area

34.4

Nid Storage

3140

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

34
       
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.