Gifford's Mill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Gifford's Mill Dam, located in Tuckerton, New Jersey, is a significant water resource structure associated with the Gifford's Mill Branch.


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Summary

Owned by the local government, this dam serves the primary purpose of recreation, providing a tranquil setting for water and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. The dam is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), ensuring that it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement standards.

Despite its recreational value, Gifford's Mill Dam is currently in poor condition, with a significant hazard potential identified. The last inspection in February 2020 highlighted the dam's deteriorating state, prompting concerns about its structural integrity and safety. The emergency action plan for the dam was last revised in August 2021, indicating ongoing efforts to address potential risks and improve the dam's overall condition.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to enjoy the recreational opportunities offered by Gifford's Mill Dam, it remains essential for authorities to prioritize its maintenance and rehabilitation to ensure the safety of both the structure and the surrounding community. With proper risk assessment and management measures in place, this historic dam can continue to be a valuable asset while safeguarding against potential hazards and preserving its environmental significance in the region.

River Or Stream

Gifford's Mill Branch

Drainage Area

2.3

Hazard Potential

Significant
       
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.