Lake Gilman Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Hackney Dam Ewans Mill Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Lake Gilman Dam, located in Elk Township, New Jersey, is a vital structure that serves the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1928, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans 350 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 75 acre-feet. Situated on Raccoon Creek, this dam is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.
With a hazard potential rated as high, Lake Gilman Dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition as of March 2021. Despite its age, the dam is well-maintained and has a designated emergency action plan in place. The surrounding area, encompassing 12 acres of surface water and a drainage area of 4 square miles, provides recreational opportunities for the local community. The dam's location in Gloucester County also falls within Congressional District 02, represented by Jeff Van Drew.
As a significant feature in the water resource management of New Jersey, Lake Gilman Dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining infrastructure for both safety and recreation. Its historical significance, combined with its role in ensuring water availability for recreational activities, highlights the intersection of human-made structures and natural resources in the face of climate challenges. The ongoing maintenance and regulatory oversight of this dam demonstrate a commitment to sustainable water management practices in the region.
Year Completed |
1928 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
Raccoon Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Drainage Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
Lake Gilman Dam