Colonial Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Colonial Lake Dam, located in East Trenton, New Jersey, is a local government-owned structure on Shabakunk Creek with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1925, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans 460 feet in length. It has a storage capacity of 85 acre-feet, with normal storage at 59 acre-feet and a surface area of 17 acres.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Colonial Lake Dam is regularly inspected by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, with the last assessment conducted in July 2020. The dam's condition was rated as fair during this inspection, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1480 cubic feet per second, it serves as a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Colonial Lake Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of human-made structures and natural waterways. Its historical significance, recreational value, and role in water storage and management make it a noteworthy site for those interested in the dynamic relationship between dams, rivers, and the surrounding environment.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Shabakunk Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Drainage Area

12

Nid Storage

85

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.