Watson'S Lake Dam

Timber Creek N. Branch· Camden, New Jersey· Earth· 15 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation State Government

Key Takeaway

Watson'S Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Jersey. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 15 ft (taller than 51.4% in NJ)
Dam TypeEarth
Surface Area2 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
NID IDNJ01002

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: April 28, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NJDEP

Ownership

NJDOT

State Government

Nearby Dams

Bottom'S Lake Dam

Camden, NJ

Significant Hazard 8 ft

Clementon Lake Dam

Camden, NJ

High Hazard 19 ft

New Camp Site Dam

Camden, NJ

Low Hazard 15 ft

Silver Lake Dam

Camden, NJ

Significant Hazard 10 ft

Kirkwood Lake Dam

Camden, NJ

Low Hazard 13 ft

Laurel Springs Dam

Camden, NJ

Low Hazard 30 ft

Sunshine Lake Dam

Camden, NJ

Significant Hazard 10 ft

Little Gloucester Dam

Camden, NJ

Significant Hazard 20 ft

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Watson'S Lake Dam?

Watson'S 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 Watson'S Lake Dam?

Watson'S Lake Dam is owned by NJDOT (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Watson'S Lake Dam?

Watson'S 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 Watson'S Lake Dam?

Watson'S Lake Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Watson'S Lake Dam last inspected?

Watson'S Lake Dam was last inspected on April 28, 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.