Bethel Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Bethel Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1942 and is 84 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 16 ft (taller than 59.4% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 175 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 126 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 67 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 12 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 821 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1942 (84 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00406 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
County of Gloucester
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Wadsworth Lake Dam
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High Hazard 20 ftAlcyon Lake Dam
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Significant Hazard 12 ftKandle Lake Dam
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Significant Hazard 9 ftBankbridge Dam
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Low Hazard 21 ftLake Oberst Dam
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Significant Hazard 9 ftLakeland Dam
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Significant Hazard 14 ftBells Lake Dam
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Significant Hazard 22 ftWedgwood Country Club Dam
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Significant Hazard 11 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bethel Lake Dam?
Bethel Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Bethel Lake Dam?
Bethel Lake Dam is owned by County of Gloucester (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bethel Lake Dam built?
Bethel Lake Dam was completed in 1942, making it 84 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Bethel Lake Dam?
Bethel Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Bethel Lake Dam?
Bethel Lake Dam has a dam height of 16 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Bethel Lake Dam last inspected?
Bethel Lake Dam was last inspected on March 11, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.