Campbells Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Campbells Pond Dam, located in Millburn, New Jersey, was completed in 1899 and serves as a crucial water supply structure for the area.


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Summary

The dam is primarily of earth type construction, standing at a height of 21.8 feet with a length of 300 feet. It has a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 21 acre-feet and a surface area of 5 acres. The dam regulates the flow of the West Branch river, which covers a drainage area of 6.4 square miles.

Despite its importance for water management, Campbells Pond Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in November 2019 highlighted the need for maintenance and potential safety concerns. It is regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures in place. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 2015, indicating a need for updated emergency protocols to address any potential risks associated with its condition.

As an essential water supply infrastructure in Essex County, Campbells Pond Dam plays a vital role in managing the region's water resources. However, the dam's poor condition and significant hazard potential underscore the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure its structural integrity and the safety of surrounding communities. Climate and water resource enthusiasts may find interest in the ongoing efforts to address the dam's condition and improve its resilience in the face of potential climate impacts.

Year Completed

1899

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

21.8

River Or Stream

West Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

6.4

Nid Storage

70

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
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.