Stafford Forge Dam

Westcunk Creek· Ocean, New Jersey· Built 1944· Earth· 9 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation State Government

Key Takeaway

Stafford Forge Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1944 and is 82 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 9 ft (taller than 12.9% in NJ)
Dam Length1,275 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Normal Storage138 acre-ft
Surface Area50 acres
Drainage Area17 sq mi
Max Discharge2,750 cfs
Year Completed1944 (82 years old)
NID IDNJ00059

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: November 8, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NJDEP

Ownership

Division of Fish & Wildlife

State Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Stafford Forge Dam?

Stafford Forge 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 Stafford Forge Dam?

Stafford Forge Dam is owned by Division of Fish & Wildlife (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Stafford Forge Dam built?

Stafford Forge Dam was completed in 1944, making it 82 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 Stafford Forge Dam?

Stafford Forge 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 Stafford Forge Dam?

Stafford Forge Dam has a dam height of 9 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 Stafford Forge Dam last inspected?

Stafford Forge Dam was last inspected on November 8, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.