Verona Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Verona Lake Dam, located in Verona Township, New Jersey, serves as a crucial structure for recreation purposes along the Peckman River.


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Summary

Completed in 1903, this masonry dam stands at a height of 13 feet and stretches 438 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. The dam is owned and regulated by the local government, with oversight from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures.

Despite its age, Verona Lake Dam maintains a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in April 2021. With a high hazard potential due to its location and capacity, the dam is subject to a biennial inspection frequency. The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for the dam is up to date, last revised in April 2022, ensuring that proper guidelines are in place in case of any emergencies. The dam's risk assessment and management measures are currently under review, reflecting ongoing efforts to maintain the safety and integrity of this vital water resource infrastructure.

As a key feature in the water management system of Essex County, New Jersey, Verona Lake Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels for recreation and downstream flow management. With its historical significance and recreational value, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the region. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate adaptation can appreciate the efforts put into ensuring the safety and functionality of Verona Lake Dam, highlighting the intersection of environmental conservation and human recreation in a rapidly changing climate landscape.

Year Completed

1903

Dam Length

438

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

Peckman River

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

13

Drainage Area

2.2

Nid Storage

90

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

13
       
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.