Sunset Lake Raceway Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sunset Lake Raceway Dam, located in Bridgeton City, Cumberland County, New Jersey, is a local government-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1949, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and spans a length of 5000 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 417 acre-feet. Situated on the Cohansey River, the dam has a low hazard potential and was last inspected in April 2018, with a satisfactory condition assessment.

Managed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), Sunset Lake Raceway Dam is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its relatively low hazard potential, the dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities and maintaining the ecological balance in the area. With a drainage area of 47.7 square miles and a surface area of 103 acres, the dam contributes significantly to the local water resources and climate resilience efforts in the region.

As a significant landmark in the Congressional District 02 of New Jersey, Sunset Lake Raceway Dam not only enhances the recreational experiences for residents and visitors but also underscores the importance of proper dam management and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and ensure public safety. With a history dating back to the mid-20th century, this dam represents a blend of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship, making it a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable infrastructure development.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

5000

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

Cohansey River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

103

Drainage Area

47.7

Nid Storage

417

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
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.