Sunset Lake Dam, located in Parsippany, New Jersey, is a historic earth dam completed in 1914 for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Situated on Troy Brook in Morris County, the dam stands at a height of 8.3 feet and has a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 74 acre-feet. Despite its small surface area of 15 acres and drainage area of 0.37 square miles, the dam has a high hazard potential and is currently in poor condition, as assessed during its last inspection in December 2020.
Owned by the local government, Sunset Lake Dam is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's primary purpose is for recreational use, attracting visitors to its scenic location in Mountain Lakes Borough. With its close proximity to Congressional District 11 and representation by Mikie Sherrill, the dam plays a significant role in the region's water resource management and climate resilience efforts.
As an integral part of the local landscape, Sunset Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the area's history and provides valuable recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. However, with its aging infrastructure and high hazard potential, the dam's condition raises concerns for safety and the need for potential risk management measures to ensure the longevity of this important water resource in New Jersey.
Year Completed |
1914 |
Dam Length |
165 |
Dam Height |
8.3 |
River Or Stream |
Troy Brook |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Drainage Area |
0.37 |
Nid Storage |
90 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
8 |