Malaga Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Malaga Dam, located in Gloucester, New Jersey, along the Scotland Run river, is a state-owned earth dam primarily used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 21.5 feet and with a length of 11,625 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 800 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 100 acres. The dam is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, Malaga Dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in April 2021. The dam is equipped with emergency action plans (EAP) and meets regulatory guidelines to manage potential risks. The surrounding area of Franklin Township benefits from the recreational opportunities provided by the dam, making it a valuable resource for the community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Malaga Dam are crucial in ensuring the safety of both the environment and local populations.

As a key feature in the water resource infrastructure of New Jersey, Malaga Dam serves as not only a recreational hub but also as a vital component in managing water flow and storage in the region. With its proximity to the USACE Baltimore District and Congressional District 02, the dam plays a significant role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. As enthusiasts in water resources and climate, it is important to stay informed about the condition and management of dams like Malaga Dam to support sustainable practices and safeguard against potential hazards in the future.

Dam Length

11625

Dam Height

21.5

River Or Stream

Scotland Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

100

Drainage Area

29.1

Nid Storage

800

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
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.