Lake Lenape Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lake Lenape Dam, located in Mays Landing, New Jersey, is a vital structure along the Great Egg Harbor River with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1879, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and stretches over 1050 feet in length, offering a surface area of 300 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy. Despite its age, the dam provides a storage capacity of 6610 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 4500 acre-feet, making it a crucial water resource for the surrounding area.

However, recent assessments have raised concerns about the dam's condition, with a poor rating and a high hazard potential identified. The last inspection in July 2020 highlighted the need for urgent maintenance and improvement measures to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure. With the dam being state-regulated and inspected regularly by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, there is a commitment to addressing these issues and implementing risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding communities and water resources.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the significance of maintaining and upgrading dams like Lake Lenape Dam becomes increasingly evident. With a growing focus on resilience and emergency preparedness, it is essential for stakeholders to work together to address the challenges posed by aging infrastructure and evolving environmental conditions. The future of Lake Lenape Dam hinges on proactive management and investment in sustainable solutions to ensure its continued service for recreation and water resource management in the region.

Year Completed

1879

Dam Length

1050

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

Great Egg Harbor River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

300

Drainage Area

205

Nid Storage

6610

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

29
       
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.