Blue Heron Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Blue Heron Lake Dam, located in Sussex, New Jersey, is a state-owned earth dam that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam has a height of 7 feet and a length of 230 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. Situated on the Wallkill River-TR, the dam is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and undergoes regular state inspections to ensure its safety and integrity.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Blue Heron Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. The last inspection was conducted in May 2007, with a frequency of every 4 years. The dam does not have an emergency action plan in place, but given its low hazard potential, the risk assessment and management measures may not be deemed as critical. Overall, the dam provides a picturesque setting for recreational activities in Sparta Township while maintaining a relatively low risk profile in terms of potential hazards.

With its tranquil surroundings and modest storage capacity, Blue Heron Lake Dam offers a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts. While its primary purpose is for recreation, the dam's presence on the Wallkill River-TR adds to the diversity of water infrastructure in the region. As it continues to be regulated and inspected by state authorities, the dam remains a safe and reliable feature for both local residents and visitors to enjoy.

Dam Length

230

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

Wallkill River-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

70

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds