Birchwood Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Birchwood Lake Dam, located in Oakwood Lakes, New Jersey, is a private-owned structure primarily used for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1955, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 9 feet and spans a length of 250 feet, with a storage capacity of 95 acre-feet. The dam is situated along the Haynes Creek-TR river/stream and is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP).
With a significant hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of May 2021, Birchwood Lake Dam is subject to regular inspections every two years to ensure structural integrity and public safety. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 24 acre-feet, serving as a vital resource for the surrounding community and contributing to the overall water management in Burlington County. The dam's location in Medford Township, within Congressional District 03 of New Jersey, highlights its importance in the local ecosystem and recreational landscape.
As a key feature in the water resource infrastructure, Birchwood Lake Dam plays a crucial role in flood control, water storage, and recreational activities in the region. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, the dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and maintenance of essential infrastructure for sustainable development in New Jersey.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
Haynes Creek-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
24 |
Drainage Area |
8.5 |
Nid Storage |
95 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
9 |
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.
Birchwood Lake Dam