Stafford Forge Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Located in Eagleswood Township, New Jersey, the Stafford Forge Dam stands as a vital structure on the Westcunk Creek, serving primarily for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, completed in 1944, is an earth-type construction standing at a height of 9 feet and stretching 1275 feet in length. With a normal storage capacity of 138 acre-feet and a drainage area of 17 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), the Stafford Forge Dam has been deemed to have a significant hazard potential but is currently in fair condition as of the most recent inspection in November 2021. The dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its safety and compliance with standards. Despite its age, the Stafford Forge Dam continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities while contributing to the overall water management efforts in Ocean County, New Jersey.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in the area, the Stafford Forge Dam plays a crucial role in flood control, water storage, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and strategic location on the Westcunk Creek, the dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the region. As climate change impacts water resources, structures like the Stafford Forge Dam become increasingly essential for maintaining the balance between human needs and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1944

Dam Length

1275

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

Westcunk Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Drainage Area

17

Nid Storage

138

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

9
       
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.