Canistear Reservoir #1 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Located in Hardyston Township, New Jersey, the Canistear Reservoir #1 Dam stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship.


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Summary

Built in 1896, this earth dam serves as a crucial water supply source, with a storage capacity of 7,400 acre-feet and a surface area of 302 acres. The dam is situated along Peacock Brook and is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring proper inspection, permitting, and enforcement measures are in place to maintain its structural integrity.

Standing at a height of 70 feet and spanning 680 feet in length, the Canistear Reservoir #1 Dam plays a vital role in flood control and water management in Sussex County. With a fair condition assessment and a high hazard potential, the dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure the safety of nearby communities. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose effectively, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.

As climate change continues to impact water resources worldwide, the Canistear Reservoir #1 Dam serves as a symbol of resilience and adaptability. With a strong foundation and a history of successful water supply management, this historic structure stands as a beacon of hope for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its strategic location, efficient design, and regulatory oversight make it a shining example of how infrastructure can work in harmony with nature for the benefit of all.

Year Completed

1896

Dam Length

680

Dam Height

70

River Or Stream

Pacock Brook

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

302

Drainage Area

5.3

Nid Storage

7400

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

70
       
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.