Breakneck Dam
Key Takeaway
Breakneck Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1870 and is 156 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 14 ft (taller than 46.2% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 255 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 354 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 125 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 39 acres |
| Drainage Area | 13 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1870 (156 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00425 |
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
Old Taunton Colony Club
Private
Nearby Dams
Centennial Lake Dam
Burlington, NJ
High Hazard 18 ftLake Pine Dam
Burlington, NJ
Significant Hazard 14 ftBurnt Bog Dam
Burlington, NJ
Low Hazard 14 ftKilldeer Lake Dam
Burlington, NJ
Significant Hazard 15 ftLake James Dam
Burlington, NJ
Significant Hazard 11 ftBriarwood Lake Dam
Burlington, NJ
Significant Hazard 12 ftTimber Lake Dam
Burlington, NJ
High Hazard 19 ftBraddocks Mill Dam
Burlington, NJ
Significant Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Breakneck Dam?
Breakneck 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 Breakneck Dam?
Breakneck Dam is owned by Old Taunton Colony Club (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Breakneck Dam built?
Breakneck Dam was completed in 1870, making it 156 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 Breakneck Dam?
Breakneck 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 Breakneck Dam?
Breakneck Dam has a dam height of 14 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 Breakneck Dam last inspected?
Breakneck Dam was last inspected on March 9, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.