Brown Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Brown Dam in Salem, New Jersey, serves as a crucial water supply source, completed in 1934 with a storage capacity of 1,100 acre-feet.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 2,500 feet along the Salam Canal, contributing to a surface area of 171 acres and draining a 60-square-mile watershed. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam undergoes regular inspections, with the latest assessment in September 2021 affirming its satisfactory condition.

Located in Pennsville Township, Brown Dam plays a key role in managing water resources in the region, serving as a lifeline for the surrounding community and wildlife. Its primary purpose of water supply underscores its importance in sustaining the ecosystem and supporting various activities dependent on reliable water access. Additionally, the dam's presence highlights the collaborative efforts between private owners and regulatory agencies, such as the NJDEP, ensuring compliance with state regulations and safety standards.

With Congressional representation from Jeff Van Drew, Brown Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management in New Jersey. Its history, design, and functionality represent a harmonious balance between human needs and environmental conservation, making it a significant landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, structures like Brown Dam will continue to play a vital role in safeguarding water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

2500

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Salam Canal

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

171

Drainage Area

60

Nid Storage

1100

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.