Carmel Dam
Key Takeaway
Carmel Dam is classified as significant hazard in Louisiana. It was completed in 1998 and is 28 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 22 ft (taller than 69.8% in LA) |
| Dam Length | 490 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 121 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 110 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 11 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 433 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1998 (28 years old) |
| NID ID | LA00452 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Sims and Sandra Calhoun
Private
Nearby Dams
Carmel Lake No. 3
De Soto, LA
Significant Hazard 25 ftCarmel Dam No. 2
De Soto, LA
Low Hazard 15 ftSmithport Lake Road Pond
De Soto, LA
Low Hazard 33 ftBridges Pond Dam
De Soto, LA
Low Hazard 17 ftSmithport Lake Dam
De Soto, LA
Low Hazard 18 ftBell Lake No. 2
De Soto, LA
Low Hazard 14 ftBell Lake
De Soto, LA
Low Hazard 13 ftHawg Heaven Pond
De Soto, LA
Low Hazard 17 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Carmel Dam?
Carmel Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Carmel Dam?
Carmel Dam is owned by Sims and Sandra Calhoun (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Carmel Dam built?
Carmel Dam was completed in 1998, making it 28 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Carmel Dam?
Carmel Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Carmel Dam?
Carmel Dam has a dam height of 22 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Carmel Dam last inspected?
Carmel Dam was last inspected on May 10, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.