Lake Gerard Dike C Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Lake Gerard Dike C, located in Sussex, New Jersey, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 12 feet and stretches 1275 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 1157 acre-feet. With a surface area of 105 acres and a drainage area of 1.9 square miles, the dam regulates Franklin Pond Creek and provides a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.

Despite being in a satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in July 2020, Lake Gerard Dike C is classified as having a high hazard potential. The dam is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), with state enforcement, permitting, and inspection procedures in place. Emergency action plans have been prepared and updated, ensuring that the necessary measures are in place to mitigate risks and protect the surrounding community in case of a breach or flood event.

Situated in Hardyston Township, Lake Gerard Dike C serves as a vital water resource and recreational area in the region. With its serene surroundings and essential role in flood control and water storage, the dam is a significant asset that requires ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality for both residents and visitors alike.

Dam Length

1275

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Franklin Pond Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

105

Drainage Area

1.9

Nid Storage

1157

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

12
       
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.