Lower Crest Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Lower Crest Lake Dam, located in Oak Ridge, New Jersey, is a privately owned earth dam situated on the Pequannock River-TR.


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Summary

Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a serene and picturesque spot for water and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. The dam is regulated and inspected by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite its significant hazard potential, with a poor condition assessment as of October 2019, the dam has yet to undergo necessary modifications or improvements. The last inspection date revealed the dam's condition, and its Emergency Action Plan (EAP) was last revised in August 2015. This raises concerns about the dam's ability to withstand potential risks and emergencies, emphasizing the importance of proper maintenance and risk management measures.

For those interested in exploring Lower Crest Lake Dam and its recreational offerings, it is crucial to be aware of its condition and potential hazards. While the dam provides a tranquil setting for outdoor activities, visitors should exercise caution and stay informed about any updates regarding its safety and maintenance. The dam's location in West Milford Township offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the intersection of water resources, climate, and human-made structures in a natural setting.

River Or Stream

Pequannock River-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.4

Hazard Potential

Significant
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.