Fayson Lakes (West) Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Located in Kinnelon Borough, New Jersey, the Fayson Lakes (West) Dam is a privately owned structure built in 1922 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 15 feet and stretching 370 feet in length, holds a storage capacity of 341 acre-feet and covers an area of 11 acres. Situated on the Stony Brook stream, the dam is under the regulatory oversight of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring its compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols.

With a significant hazard potential but currently assessed as satisfactory in condition, the Fayson Lakes (West) Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the region. Regular inspections are conducted every two years to assess its structural integrity and ensure public safety. Although there are no associated structures or locks with the dam, its strategic location and design contribute to the overall water management system in the area. Supported by a gravity-based earth construction, the dam serves as a vital component for recreational activities while also safeguarding the surrounding environment.

Given its historical significance and impact on the local community, the Fayson Lakes (West) Dam stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering practices. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resources and infrastructure resilience, the maintenance and upkeep of structures like this dam are essential for sustainable water management. With ongoing monitoring and risk assessments, the dam remains a key feature in the region's landscape, balancing recreational needs with environmental protection and flood prevention efforts.

Year Completed

1922

Dam Length

370

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Stony Brook

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

341

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.