Atco Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Beaver Lake Dam Cranberry Co. Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Atco Lake Dam, located in Waterford Township, Camden County, New Jersey, is a local government-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam, situated on Hays Mill Creek, stands at a height of 8 feet and has a length of 800 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 85 acre-feet and a surface area of 22 acres. Despite its small size, the dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential, although its condition was assessed as satisfactory during the last inspection in July 2020.
Managed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), Atco Lake Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam has not undergone any modifications since its construction, and there are no associated structures or outlet gates. In the event of an emergency, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) may be prepared, although details on its existence and compliance with guidelines are currently unavailable. With a risk assessment and management measures pending, the dam's potential impact in case of failure underscores the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of downstream communities and the environment.
The location of Atco Lake Dam in a densely populated area and its proximity to the city of Atco highlight the importance of maintaining its integrity and functionality. As climate change continues to affect water resources and weather patterns, the role of dams in mitigating floods and providing water supply becomes increasingly crucial. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Atco Lake Dam serves as a case study in the management of small-scale dams and the need for proactive risk assessment and emergency preparedness to safeguard communities and ecosystems in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
Hays Mill Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
22 |
Drainage Area |
3.6 |
Nid Storage |
85 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Atsion - Wharton State Forest
|
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Lower Forge Camp
|
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Mullica River Campground
|
Atco Lake Dam