Cranes Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cranes Lake Dam, located in Folsom, New Jersey, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1972, this earth and gravity dam stands at a height of 10 feet and spans 1050 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 319 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 115 acre-feet, the dam sits on the Hospitality Branch river.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment in 2020, Cranes Lake Dam has been classified as having significant hazard potential. This classification, along with its inspection frequency of every two years, underscores the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and functionality of the dam. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) plays a key role in regulating and inspecting the dam, highlighting the collaborative effort between state agencies and private owners in managing water resources.

In the event of an emergency, it is crucial for the owners of Cranes Lake Dam to have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place. While details about the EAP status are not currently available, it is essential for the dam to meet guidelines and have updated emergency contacts to mitigate risks and protect nearby communities. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the condition and management of dams like Cranes Lake Dam is vital for promoting sustainable water practices and safeguarding our environment.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

1050

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

Hospitality Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

33

Drainage Area

14.2

Nid Storage

319

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.