Echo Lake Spillway Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Echo Lake Spillway Dam, located in Kinnelon, New Jersey, serves as a crucial water supply structure for the surrounding area.


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Summary

Built in 1926, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans a length of 260 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 7686 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the Macopin River, plays a vital role in maintaining water levels and ensuring a stable water supply for the region.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), Echo Lake Spillway Dam undergoes regular inspections to assess its condition and ensure the safety of the surrounding community. With a hazard potential rated as high and a fair condition assessment, the dam is closely monitored to prevent any potential risks or failures. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose effectively, with a normal storage capacity of 4870 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.7 square miles.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and upkeep of structures like Echo Lake Spillway Dam are critical in safeguarding water supplies and mitigating potential hazards. With a comprehensive emergency action plan in place and regular inspections conducted, this dam remains a vital component of the water supply system in Passaic County, New Jersey, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

260

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

Macopin River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

300

Drainage Area

2.7

Nid Storage

7686

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.