Lookover Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lookover Lake Dam in West Milford, New Jersey, is a privately owned structure regulated by the state's Department of Environmental Protection.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at a height of 12 feet with a length of 150 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a picturesque setting for visitors. The dam holds a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 40 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.4 square miles.

Maintaining a satisfactory condition assessment, Lookover Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its location along Longhouse Brook. While the dam has undergone regular inspections, the last one taking place in October 2021, there is a heightened need for emergency preparedness and risk management measures. Despite its risks, the dam continues to provide a serene recreational space for the community, showcasing the delicate balance between water resource management and public safety in the face of changing climate conditions.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricacies of Lookover Lake Dam, its significance lies not only in its structural design and storage capabilities but also in the ongoing efforts to ensure its safety and functionality. With a focus on recreation and a commitment to regulatory compliance, this dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human intervention with natural water systems, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices and emergency preparedness in safeguarding our environment for future generations.

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Longhouse Brook

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Drainage Area

1.4

Nid Storage

53

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

12
       
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.