Cooper River Parkway (Kaighn Ave) Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Newton Lake Dam Haddon Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Cooper River Parkway (Kaighn Ave) Dam, located in Camden, New Jersey, serves as a vital structure for flood risk reduction along the Cooper River.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1940, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans a length of 156 feet, with a storage capacity of 2900 acre-feet. Despite its historical significance, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, signaling a need for maintenance and repairs to ensure its continued effectiveness in safeguarding the surrounding communities from potential flooding events.
Managed by the City of Camden as the primary owner, the Cooper River Parkway Dam is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) and undergoes regular inspections to monitor its structural integrity. With a significant hazard potential, stakeholders are urged to address the dam's maintenance needs promptly to mitigate any risks associated with its current condition. As a key component in the flood risk reduction strategy for the area, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting downstream communities and infrastructure from the impacts of high water events.
Despite its age and condition assessment, the Cooper River Parkway Dam remains a critical infrastructure asset for flood management in Camden, New Jersey. With a storage capacity of 2900 acre-feet and a drainage area of 37 square miles, the dam provides essential flood protection for the surrounding region. As efforts continue to address its maintenance needs and ensure its long-term reliability, the Cooper River Parkway (Kaighn Ave) Dam stands as a testament to the ongoing challenges and importance of water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
156 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
Cooper River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
190 |
Drainage Area |
37 |
Nid Storage |
2900 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Cooper River Parkway (Kaighn Ave) Dam
Creek Road Bellmawr
Camden High School Athletic Field
Cooper River Park
New Camden Park
Alberta Woods
Mickel / Eutaw