Upper Crest Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Upper Crest Lake Dam, located in Oak Ridge, New Jersey, along the Pequannock River-TR, is a privately-owned earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Despite its small size, this dam is subject to state regulation by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, with required permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures in place. The dam's condition has been assessed as poor, with a significant hazard potential, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and potential risk management measures.
The dam's last inspection took place in October 2019, with a scheduled frequency of every two years. The emergency action plan (EAP) for the dam was last revised in August 2015, indicating the need for updated emergency contacts and adherence to guidelines. With a low-risk assessment and no associated inundation maps or risk management measures in place, the dam poses a potential concern for the surrounding community in the event of a breach or failure. Given its location within the West Milford Township, it is crucial for stakeholders to prioritize regular assessments and maintenance to ensure the dam's safety and integrity for future recreational use.
In conclusion, Upper Crest Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational resource in Passaic County, New Jersey, drawing visitors to its scenic location along the Pequannock River-TR. However, with a poor condition assessment and significant hazard potential, the dam requires ongoing attention and potential upgrades to enhance its safety and mitigate risks. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, it is essential for dam owners and regulators to prioritize proactive measures to ensure the long-term stability and resilience of structures like Upper Crest Lake Dam in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
River Or Stream |
Pequannock River-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.4 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Upper Crest Lake Dam
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