Bass Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Bass Lake Dam, located in Ocean County, New Jersey, is a federal-owned structure managed by the US Air Force for recreational purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 10 feet and a length of 122 feet, serves as a barrier for the water from the BLACKS BRANCH-TR river, providing a storage capacity of 176 acre-feet. The dam has a low hazard potential and is inspected by the US Air Force with a frequency of 4 times a year.

The dam, constructed in an unlisted/unknown foundation type, features an uncontrolled spillway and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age not being specified, Bass Lake Dam continues to meet regulatory requirements, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement ensured by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are under review, highlighting the importance of proactive safety measures in the face of potential hazards.

With its picturesque location in JACKSON TOWNSHIP, Bass Lake Dam offers a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities. As a vital part of the local ecosystem and water resource management infrastructure, the dam stands as a testament to responsible stewardship and the need for ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and sustainability of this valuable natural resource.

Dam Length

122

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

BLACKS BRANCH-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Drainage Area

0.62

Nid Storage

176

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.