Camp Karney Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Camp Karney Dam, located in Woodstown, New Jersey, along the Salem River, is a local government-owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1953, this earth dam stands at 13 feet tall and spans 1500 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 259 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and improvements to ensure its long-term safety and functionality.

The dam is under the regulatory oversight of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to monitor its compliance with safety standards. The last inspection in June 2021 revealed the dam's poor condition, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and upkeep. Although there are no associated structures or federal agency involvement with Camp Karney Dam, its significance in providing recreational activities underscores the need for continued monitoring and potential risk management measures to safeguard both the dam and the surrounding environment.

As a vital part of the local community's recreational infrastructure, Camp Karney Dam serves as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking activities along the Salem River. While its current condition may raise concerns, proactive measures and investment in maintenance can help ensure the long-term resilience and safety of this important water resource for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

1500

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

Salem River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

26

Drainage Area

11.8

Nid Storage

259

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.