Florence Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Florence Lake in Estellville, New Jersey, is a privately owned reservoir with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Built in 1964 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 11 feet tall and spans 850 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 293 acre-feet. Located on the Great Egg Harbor River, Florence Lake offers a surface area of 55 acres and a drainage area of 5 square miles, making it a vital resource for flood control and wildlife habitat in the region.

Despite its low hazard potential, Florence Lake serves multiple purposes beyond flood risk reduction, including fish and wildlife pond management and recreational activities. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates ensure proper water flow management, while its moderate risk assessment rating indicates a need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. With its serene surroundings and essential role in water resource management, Florence Lake is a captivating destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore the intersection of nature and infrastructure in Atlantic County, New Jersey.

As a key feature of the Philadelphia District's water infrastructure, Florence Lake represents the collaborative efforts of the USDA NRCS in designing and maintaining sustainable structures that balance flood protection with environmental conservation. While the dam's condition assessment and emergency preparedness details are not currently available, its historical significance and ongoing relevance in managing water resources make it a site worth studying and appreciating for those interested in the intersection of water management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

850

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

Great Egg Harbor River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

55

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

5

Nid Storage

293

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

14
       
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.