Lake Rutherford Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Lake Rutherford Dam, located in Colesville, New Jersey, is a vital piece of infrastructure for the local government, serving as a key water supply source in Sussex County.
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Summary
The dam, primarily designed for water supply purposes, stands at a height of 12 feet and spans 110 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 780 acre-feet. The dam overlooks Clove Brook-TR and has a surface area of 64 acres, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.
This earth-type dam, with a high hazard potential, has been assessed as satisfactory in its condition as of the last inspection in July 2021. The emergency action plan (EAP) for the dam was last updated in August 2021, ensuring that necessary measures are in place in case of any unforeseen events. With a history of regular inspections and state regulation by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), Lake Rutherford Dam plays a crucial role in water management and supply for the region.
Congressional District 05 in New Jersey, represented by Josh S. Gottheimer, oversees this essential water resource infrastructure. The dam's location in Wantage Township highlights its significance in the local landscape, providing a steady water supply and contributing to the overall environmental and climate resilience of the area. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Lake Rutherford Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices and the critical role that infrastructure plays in addressing environmental challenges.
Dam Length |
110 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
Clove Brook-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
64 |
Drainage Area |
0.6 |
Nid Storage |
780 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Delaware River At Port Jervis Ny
|
1690cfs |
Delaware River At Montague Nj
|
1760cfs |
Neversink River At Godeffroy Ny
|
129cfs |
Mongaup River Near Mongaup Ny
|
119cfs |
Eb Paulins Kill Near Lafayette Nj
|
14cfs |
Little Bush Kill At Edgemere
|
3cfs |
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.
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