Porches Mill Dam, located in Woolwich Township, New Jersey, is a privately owned structure that serves the primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
This Earth-type dam, completed in 1923, has a height of 20 feet and a length of 350 feet, creating a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Oldmans Creek, a tributary of the Delaware River, in Gloucester County.
Despite its low hazard potential, the condition assessment of Porches Mill Dam is currently marked as unsatisfactory, with the last inspection conducted in August 2020. The dam is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. While the dam poses minimal risk, there is a need for ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure its safety and functionality for recreational purposes.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Porches Mill Dam presents an intriguing case study in the management of aging infrastructure and the balance between recreational use and safety concerns. The dam's location in a high-risk flood area underscores the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and ensure the protection of downstream communities. As discussions around dam safety and climate change intensify, the management of structures like Porches Mill Dam will continue to be a critical focus for water resource professionals and policymakers alike.
Year Completed |
1923 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Oldmans Creek-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Drainage Area |
1.5 |
Nid Storage |
76 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |