Columbia Dam
Key Takeaway
Columbia Dam is classified as low hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1909 and is 117 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 18 ft (taller than 66.3% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 330 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 565 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 275 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 43 acres |
| Drainage Area | 175 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 11,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1909 (117 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00124 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
The Nature Conservancy
Private
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High Hazard 70 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Columbia Dam?
Columbia Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Columbia Dam?
Columbia Dam is owned by The Nature Conservancy (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Columbia Dam built?
Columbia Dam was completed in 1909, making it 117 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 Columbia Dam?
Columbia 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 Columbia Dam?
Columbia Dam has a dam height of 18 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 Columbia Dam last inspected?
Columbia Dam was last inspected on January 22, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.