Upper Stokes Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Upper Stokes Dam in Medford Lakes, New Jersey, is a local government-owned structure that plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities for the community.


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Summary

Situated on the Sharps Branch of Haynes Creek, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and spans 250 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 68 acre-feet. Despite its importance in offering recreational activities, the dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential and is currently in poor condition, as assessed in July 2021.

With its location in Burlington County, Upper Stokes Dam is subject to state regulation and enforcement by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. The dam's purpose is primarily for recreation, with a normal storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a surface area of 7 acres. The dam poses a potential risk due to its condition, prompting the need for regular inspections and emergency action plans to ensure public safety and the preservation of the surrounding ecosystem.

Given the dam's poor condition and significant hazard potential, stakeholders and authorities must prioritize maintenance and risk management measures to mitigate potential dangers and safeguard the community. Through proper monitoring, maintenance, and emergency preparedness, Upper Stokes Dam can continue to serve as a valuable resource for recreation while ensuring the safety of residents and the environment in Medford Lakes, New Jersey.

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

Sharps Branch of Haynes Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

1.5

Nid Storage

68

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

11
       
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.