Washington Lake West Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Washington Lake West Dam, located in Westwood, New Jersey, serves as a vital recreational resource for the community.


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Summary

Completed in 1980, the dam is primarily used for recreation purposes and stands at a height of 10 feet with a length of 300 feet. It has a storage capacity of 252 acre-feet, providing essential water storage for the surrounding area. The dam is situated on the Musquapsink Brook and is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

With a surface area of 28 acres and a drainage area of 2.5 square miles, Washington Lake West Dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and ensuring flood protection for the region. The dam has a significant hazard potential but has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with inspections conducted regularly to ensure its safety. In case of emergencies, preparations are in place, as evidenced by the Emergency Action Plan last revised in December 2020.

Overall, Washington Lake West Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and serves as a valuable asset for the community. Its role in providing recreational opportunities while also safeguarding against potential hazards highlights the importance of proper infrastructure maintenance and regulatory oversight in ensuring the resilience of water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

Musquapsink Brook

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28

Drainage Area

2.5

Nid Storage

252

Hazard Potential

Significant

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.