Silver Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Weston Mill Pond Dam Westons Arch Dam
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Silver Lake Dam, located in Piscataway, New Jersey, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Constructed in 1923, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a length of 200 feet, providing a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the Raritan River and has a normal storage capacity of 26 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 5 acres and draining an area of 1.3 square miles.
Managed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), Silver Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in September 2021. With a maximum discharge capacity of 400 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a vital recreational spot in Middlesex County, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. Although the dam does not have a spillway, it is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure the safety of the surrounding community.
Despite being a privately owned structure, Silver Lake Dam plays a significant role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region. Its historical significance, combined with its recreational value and environmental impact, makes it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate in the vibrant landscape of New Jersey.
Year Completed |
1923 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
Raritan-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
1.3 |
Nid Storage |
52 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Silver Lake Dam