Wells Mill Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Wells Mill Reservoir Dam in Ocean Township, New Jersey, is a local government-owned structure that serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Situated on Oyster Creek, this earth dam stands at a height of 9 feet and stretches for 330 feet, with a storage capacity of 105 acre-feet and a surface area of 22 acres. The dam was last inspected in October 2019 and was deemed to be in satisfactory condition with a low hazard potential.

Managed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), Wells Mill Reservoir Dam presents a vital water resource for the surrounding area. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam undergoes regular inspections every four years to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's primary purpose is recreation, providing a serene environment for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking.

Located in the picturesque county of Ocean, New Jersey, Wells Mill Reservoir Dam offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its peaceful surroundings and ample storage capacity, this dam not only contributes to the local ecosystem but also provides a safe and enjoyable recreational space for visitors to appreciate and learn about water resources and climate conservation efforts.

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

Oyster Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22

Drainage Area

4.28

Nid Storage

105

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
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.