Saunders Fish Pond Dam, located in Mendham Borough, New Jersey, is a privately owned earth dam that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Situated on the North Branch Raritan River, this dam measures 12 feet in height and 250 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 15 acre-feet. Despite its modest size, the dam poses a significant hazard potential and has been rated as being in poor condition during its last inspection in October 2020.
Managed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), Saunders Fish Pond Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in November 2018, and it meets the necessary guidelines for risk assessment and management. With a drainage area of 0.48 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 170 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
As a site of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Saunders Fish Pond Dam offers a unique opportunity to study the intersection of recreational land use and environmental conservation. Its location within Congressional District 11, represented by Mikie Sherrill, highlights the importance of responsible dam management in safeguarding both human safety and ecosystem health. Further monitoring and maintenance efforts will be essential to ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital water infrastructure.
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
North Branch Raritan River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Drainage Area |
0.48 |
Nid Storage |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
12 |