Swimming River Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Swimming River Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1901 and is 125 years old. Its primary use is water supply. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 45 ft (taller than 96.1% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 2,400 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 14.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 8.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 557 acres |
| Drainage Area | 49 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 27,530 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1901 (125 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00082 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
New Jersey-American Water Company
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Swimming River Reservoir Dam?
Swimming River Reservoir Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Swimming River Reservoir Dam?
Swimming River Reservoir Dam is owned by New Jersey-American Water Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Swimming River Reservoir Dam built?
Swimming River Reservoir Dam was completed in 1901, making it 125 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 Swimming River Reservoir Dam?
Swimming River Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Swimming River Reservoir Dam?
Swimming River Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 45 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 Swimming River Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Swimming River Reservoir Dam was last inspected on April 14, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.