Watchung Square Dam, located in N.
Wind
Humidity
Plainfield, New Jersey, is a private dam that plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along the Green Brook. Standing at a height of 9.5 feet with a length of 600 feet, this earth dam provides a storage capacity of 11 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 750 cubic feet per second. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam is in satisfactory condition, as indicated by its last inspection in May 2021.
Managed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), Watchung Square Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and operational safety. The dam serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control in the region, contributing to the overall resilience of the area against potential water-related disasters. With its primary purpose being flood risk reduction, the dam continues to play a critical role in protecting the community and surrounding areas from the impacts of extreme weather events and climate change.
As climate change amplifies the frequency and intensity of precipitation events, dams like Watchung Square Dam become increasingly important in safeguarding communities against flooding and water-related hazards. Ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and adherence to regulatory standards are essential to ensure the continued effectiveness and safety of this vital water resource infrastructure in Somerset County, New Jersey.
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
9.5 |
River Or Stream |
Green Brook |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Drainage Area |
0.06 |
Nid Storage |
11 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
10 |