Carson Dam
Key Takeaway
Carson Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 55 ft (taller than 75.2% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 615 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 7.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 390 acres |
| Drainage Area | 176 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 12,600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1935 (91 years old) |
| NID ID | NM00455 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
MONDRAGON, TED;VAN BUREN, MAURIE
Private
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Carson Dam?
Carson Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Carson Dam?
Carson Dam is owned by MONDRAGON, TED;VAN BUREN, MAURIE (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Carson Dam built?
Carson Dam was completed in 1935, making it 91 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 Carson Dam?
Carson Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Carson Dam?
Carson Dam has a dam height of 55 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 Carson Dam last inspected?
Carson Dam was last inspected on September 16, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.