Rickabear Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Rickabear Dam, located in Kinnelon, New Jersey, stands as a pivotal structure along the Rockaway River-TR, serving primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

This privately-owned Earth dam, completed in 1954, boasts a height of 21.5 feet and a length of 1900 feet, with a storage capacity of 301 acre-feet. The dam, regulated by the NJDEP, is crucial for water resource management in the region, providing normal storage of 269 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 24 acres.

Despite its significant hazard potential, Rickabear Dam maintains a satisfactory condition assessment as of June 2020, with inspections conducted every two years to uphold its structural integrity. The dam's emergency action plan is up-to-date and meets guidelines, ensuring preparedness in case of any unforeseen events. Its location within Morris County highlights its importance in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential risks related to flooding and water discharge. As a key element in the water infrastructure of New Jersey, Rickabear Dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

1900

Dam Height

21.5

River Or Stream

Rockaway River-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

301

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
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.