Lake Arcadia Dam #2 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Lake Arcadia Dam #2 Dam, located in Apshawa, New Jersey, is a concrete dam completed in 1926 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 17.5 feet and with a length of 68 feet, the dam holds a normal storage capacity of 900 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 1000 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Bear Swamp Brook and is owned privately, regulated by the state of New Jersey, and subject to state inspection and enforcement.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Lake Arcadia Dam #2 Dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential. The dam's last inspection in October 2021 revealed no major issues, with an inspection frequency of every two years. The dam lacks an emergency action plan (EAP) and inundation maps, raising concerns about its preparedness in the event of a disaster. With a maximum discharge capacity of 142 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

As a key feature in the recreational landscape of West Milford Township, Lake Arcadia Dam #2 Dam serves as a vital resource for water enthusiasts and climate activists alike. Its maintenance and regulatory oversight are essential to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the sustainability of the local ecosystem. With ongoing monitoring and risk management measures, Lake Arcadia Dam #2 Dam continues to stand as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and environmental stewardship in New Jersey.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

68

Dam Height

17.5

River Or Stream

Bear Swamp Brook

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

64

Drainage Area

0.4

Nid Storage

1000

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
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.