Watchung Lake Dam, located in Watchung Borough, New Jersey, is a local government-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
This Earth-type dam spans 420 feet in length and stands at a height of 19.2 feet, impounding the waters of the Stony Brook West Branch. With a normal storage capacity of 93 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 3133 cubic feet per second, the dam presents a high hazard potential but was assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of May 2021.
Managed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), Watchung Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections every two years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in August 2021, emphasizing preparedness and risk management measures in case of a potential breach or flooding event. The dam's location within Somerset County further highlights its significance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region, under the regulatory oversight of NJDEP.
As a crucial infrastructure asset in the area, Watchung Lake Dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also contributes to water storage and flood control measures. With its strategic placement and high hazard potential, ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts are essential to safeguard surrounding communities and the environment from potential risks associated with dam failure. Climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates can closely follow the dam's condition assessments and emergency preparedness updates to support sustainable water management practices and resilience planning in the face of changing climate dynamics.
Dam Length |
420 |
Dam Height |
19.2 |
River Or Stream |
Stony Brook West Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Drainage Area |
3.4 |
Nid Storage |
175 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
19 |