Bear Swamp Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bear Swamp Pond Dam, located in Mahwah Township, New Jersey, is a state-regulated earth dam on the Ramapo River with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 14 feet and spanning 100 feet in length, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 326 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 55 acres. The dam poses a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition as of the last inspection in April 2011.

Despite its low hazard potential, Bear Swamp Pond Dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities in the area while also contributing to water resource management along the Ramapo River. The dam is subject to state regulation and inspection by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring its safety and compliance with relevant guidelines. With a maximum discharge capacity of 61 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a key infrastructure for flood control and water storage in the region.

As a significant feature in the landscape of Bergen County, New Jersey, Bear Swamp Pond Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and recreational activities. With its strategic location and purposeful design, the dam continues to be a focal point for both climate enthusiasts and locals alike, highlighting the importance of sustainable dam infrastructure in balancing environmental conservation and community needs.

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

Ramapo River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

55

Drainage Area

1.2

Nid Storage

326

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
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.