Franklin Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Beaver Lake Dam Lake Gerard Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Franklin Pond Dam, located in Sussex, New Jersey, is a vital structure along the Wallkill River with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
This earth and gravity dam stands at a height of 18 feet and stretches 350 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 405 acre-feet. The dam, owned by the local government, is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its satisfactory condition and significant hazard potential is managed effectively.
Despite its recreational focus, Franklin Pond Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management within the region. With a drainage area of 29.3 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 405 acre-feet, the dam helps regulate water flow and storage to mitigate flood risks and support various ecological functions. The dam's location in Franklin Borough makes it easily accessible to visitors and residents alike, offering a picturesque setting for outdoor activities while also contributing to the overall conservation efforts in the area.
As a key feature within the local landscape, Franklin Pond Dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also serves as a significant asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With its state-regulated status, regular inspections, and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam exemplifies responsible infrastructure management in safeguarding both public safety and environmental well-being. Its presence along the Wallkill River underscores the interconnectedness of water resources and climate resilience, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices in preserving our natural ecosystems for future generations.
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
Wallkill River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
50 |
Drainage Area |
29.3 |
Nid Storage |
405 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Rock Lodge Club
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Camp Lewis
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Ocquittunk - Stokes State Forest
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Swartswood State Park
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Shotwell - Stokes State Forest
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Franklin Pond Dam