Munson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Munson Dam, located in Salem Creek, New Jersey, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1934 primarily for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 31.5 feet and a length of 195 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 1100 acre-feet and serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area. Despite being regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) and undergoing regular inspections, the dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and is in fair condition as of the last assessment in September 2021.

Situated in Pennsville Township within Salem County, Munson Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, with a drainage area of 60 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 1310 cubic feet per second. Its existence ensures a reliable water supply for the community while also minimizing the risk of flooding downstream. The dam's historical significance, coupled with its operational efficiency and low hazard potential, underscores its importance in maintaining water security and environmental sustainability in the area.

With its strategic location and efficient design, Munson Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management in New Jersey. As a privately owned structure with state oversight, the dam contributes to the overall resilience of the local water supply system. Its engineering excellence, coupled with regular inspections and fair condition assessment, highlights the commitment to ensuring the safety and reliability of this essential infrastructure for both water supply and climate resilience enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

195

Dam Height

31.5

River Or Stream

Salem Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

171

Drainage Area

60

Nid Storage

1100

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

32
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.