Lake Riconda Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Riconda Dam, located in Ringwood, New Jersey, was completed in 1937 and serves as a private recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

This earth-type dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans 600 feet in length, providing storage of up to 57 acre-feet of water. The dam is situated on the Small Branch Wanaque River and is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), ensuring proper inspection, permitting, and enforcement measures are in place.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Lake Riconda Dam is subject to regular inspections every four years, with the most recent one conducted in June 2019. The dam's primary purpose of recreation offers visitors a serene environment for activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. With a surface area of 8 acres and a drainage area of 0.09 square miles, the dam provides a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the natural beauty of Passaic County.

In the event of an emergency, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk assessment measures are not explicitly outlined in the data provided. However, the dam's location within a residential area necessitates the importance of proper risk management and communication protocols to ensure the safety of surrounding communities. Lake Riconda Dam stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of human recreation and environmental conservation, making it a must-visit destination for those passionate about water resources and climate preservation.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

Small Branch Wanaque River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Drainage Area

0.09

Nid Storage

57

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.