Cherokee Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Cherokee Lake Dam, located in Mendham, New Jersey, is a privately-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1948, this earth dam stands at a height of 11.4 feet and spans 680 feet in length, holding a storage capacity of 61 acre-feet. Situated on the India Brook, the dam is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its satisfactory condition and low hazard potential.

With its serene surroundings and ample surface area of 6 acres, Cherokee Lake Dam offers a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate. The dam plays a crucial role in managing drainage in the area, with a maximum discharge capacity of 412 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam has stood the test of time and continues to provide a safe and enjoyable recreational space for the community.

As part of the New York District, Cherokee Lake Dam is a testament to effective water management and infrastructure development in the region. The dam's historical significance, coupled with its important role in recreational activities and environmental conservation, highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management practices. For those interested in exploring the intersection of water resources and climate resilience, Cherokee Lake Dam offers a fascinating case study of how human-made structures can harmoniously coexist with natural ecosystems.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

680

Dam Height

11.4

River Or Stream

India Brook

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

61

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
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.