Milton Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Milton Lake Dam, located in Rahway, New Jersey, is a concrete structure completed in 1937 primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 10 feet and a length of 204 feet, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 15 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 30 acre-feet. It is situated on the Robins Branch Rahway River and falls under the regulatory oversight of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring that the dam is inspected, permitted, and enforced to meet safety standards.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of November 2021, Milton Lake Dam poses a significant hazard potential due to its structural features and location. Regular inspections are conducted every two years to assess the dam's safety and integrity. The dam has not undergone any modifications since its completion, and its emergency action plan was last revised in January 2011. The dam's risk assessment, management measures, and inundation maps are yet to be fully documented, highlighting the need for proactive monitoring and preparedness efforts.

As an essential water resource structure in Union County, Milton Lake Dam remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its historical significance, recreational value, and hydraulic functions contribute to the local ecosystem and community resilience. With ongoing regulatory oversight and inspection protocols, Milton Lake Dam ensures the safety and sustainability of water management practices in the region, serving as a testament to effective dam infrastructure management in New Jersey.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

204

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

Robins Branch Rahway River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

10

Drainage Area

21.5

Nid Storage

30

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.