Lake Lackawanna Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Lake Lackawanna Dam, located in Byram Township, Sussex County, New Jersey, is a private-owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1910, stands at a height of 14.6 feet and has a length of 310 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 410 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Lubbers Run, within the Philadelphia District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, and is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

Despite its recreational value, Lake Lackawanna Dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential and a poor condition assessment. The last inspection in November 2020 revealed the dam's deteriorating state, prompting concerns about its structural integrity and safety. With a maximum discharge capacity of 2745 cubic feet per second, any failure or breach of the dam could pose a serious risk to downstream communities and infrastructure.

Efforts to address the dam's condition and safety measures are crucial to mitigate potential risks and ensure the protection of surrounding areas. Regular inspections and maintenance, along with emergency action plans, may be necessary to safeguard the dam and its associated structures. Climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates will need to monitor the situation closely to support the preservation and proper management of Lake Lackawanna Dam for future generations.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

310

Dam Height

14.6

River Or Stream

Lubbers Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

114

Drainage Area

13.2

Nid Storage

988

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

15
       
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.