Buttonwood Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Buttonwood Lake Dam, located in Mount Holly, New Jersey, is a local government-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1950, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 8 feet with a length of 175 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 8 acre-feet. Situated along the Rancocas Creek-TR, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and providing a serene environment for outdoor activities.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Buttonwood Lake Dam poses a significant hazard potential, requiring regular inspections every two years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 5 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.2 square miles, with a maximum discharge rate of 40 cubic feet per second. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in May 2021, highlighting the importance of preparedness and risk management in the face of potential emergencies.

As a key feature in Burlington County's water management system, Buttonwood Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational area while also fulfilling essential functions in flood control and water storage. Its location along the Rancocas Creek-TR makes it a significant landmark in the region, requiring ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of both the dam structure and surrounding communities. With its rich history and strategic importance, Buttonwood Lake Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and environmental stewardship in New Jersey.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

175

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

Rancocas Creek-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

1.2

Nid Storage

8

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

8
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.