Cliffwood Lake Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Cliffwood Lake Dike, located in Vernon Township, New Jersey, is a state-regulated earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a length of 100 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 336 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Pequannock River-TR and is under the jurisdiction of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP).

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam has not been modified in recent years and was last inspected in 2004. The inspection frequency is set at four years, indicating a need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. While there are no associated structures or federal agency involvement with the dam, its location in Sussex County, New Jersey, highlights its importance in managing water resources and providing recreational opportunities for the local community.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and regulation of dams will find Cliffwood Lake Dike to be a fascinating case study in dam safety and environmental stewardship. With its recreational purpose and state oversight, the dam serves as a vital piece of infrastructure in the region, requiring ongoing attention to address any potential risks and ensure its continued functionality for both water management and recreational activities along the Pequannock River-TR.

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Pequannock River-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Drainage Area

0.11

Nid Storage

336

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.