Located in Vernon Township, New Jersey, Lake Panorama Dam is a privately owned structure built in 1957 for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Standing at a height of 20 feet and stretching 335 feet in length, this earth and gravity dam holds a storage capacity of 94 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 64 acre-feet. The dam controls the flow of the Wallkill River-TR, covering a surface area of 15 acres with a drainage area of 0.06 square miles.
Despite its important recreational role, Lake Panorama Dam poses a significant hazard due to its poor condition as assessed in 2012. With a two-year inspection frequency, the dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 2008, and no inundation maps or risk assessments have been prepared. The dam is under state regulation by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, with enforcement, permitting, and inspection all carried out by the state.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Panorama Dam offers a unique case study on the management and maintenance of privately owned dams for recreational purposes. With its picturesque location and vital role in the local ecosystem, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections and risk assessments to ensure the safety and longevity of water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
335 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Wallkill River-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Drainage Area |
0.06 |
Nid Storage |
94 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
20 |