Brewster Dam, located in Ridgewood, New Jersey, serves as a recreational facility along the Small Branch Saddle River.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1949, this earth and gravity dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans 180 feet in length. With a maximum storage capacity of 32 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 13 acre-feet, Brewster Dam covers a surface area of 4 acres and drains a watershed area of 0.94 square miles.
Despite its recreational purpose, Brewster Dam poses a significant hazard potential with a poor condition assessment as of the last inspection in July 2019. The dam is owned privately and regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in May 2010, and there are no updated inundation maps or risk assessment reports available. Given its condition and hazard potential, it is crucial for authorities to prioritize monitoring and maintenance efforts to ensure the safety and integrity of Brewster Dam for both recreational users and the surrounding community.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, it is essential for stakeholders to address the maintenance and safety concerns associated with dams like Brewster Dam. With its historical significance and potential risks, Brewster Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive management and investment in our water resources to mitigate the potential impacts of extreme weather events and changing hydrological patterns. By prioritizing regular inspections, updates to emergency response plans, and risk assessment measures, Brewster Dam can continue to serve its recreational purpose while safeguarding the surrounding area from potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
180 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
Small Branch Saddle River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
0.94 |
Nid Storage |
32 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
13 |