Bear Brook Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Bear Brook Dam, located in Livingston Township, New Jersey, is a crucial water resource structure primarily built for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1979, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 415 feet along the Bear Brook river. Owned by the local government, the dam is regulated and inspected by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection to ensure its safety and compliance with state standards.

The dam's hazard potential is deemed significant, but its condition assessment as of April 2020 was reported as satisfactory. Regular inspections are conducted every two years to assess the dam's integrity and safety measures. While no associated structures or significant storage capacity have been noted, Bear Brook Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water supply in the area, serving as a vital resource for the community and surrounding areas.

With its strategic location and importance in water supply management, Bear Brook Dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource infrastructure development. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the dam's role in ensuring water security and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions remains paramount. The dam's ongoing regulatory oversight and inspection frequency demonstrate a commitment to maintaining its functionality and safeguarding the surrounding community from potential hazards.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

415

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Bear Brook

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.7

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

20
       
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.