Upper Tansil Dam
Key Takeaway
Upper Tansil Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1893 and is 133 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 22.4% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 585 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 617 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 550 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 43 acres |
| Drainage Area | 18,000 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 15,200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1893 (133 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1907 |
| NID ID | NM00021 |
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
CITY OF CARLSBAD
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Lower Tansil Dam
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High Hazard 38 ftCass Draw Site 2 Dam
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Significant Hazard 9 ftCass Draw Site 1 Dam
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High Hazard 27 ftBrantley
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High Hazard 144 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Upper Tansil Dam?
Upper Tansil 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 Upper Tansil Dam?
Upper Tansil Dam is owned by CITY OF CARLSBAD (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Upper Tansil Dam built?
Upper Tansil Dam was completed in 1893, making it 133 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 Upper Tansil Dam?
Upper Tansil 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 Upper Tansil Dam?
Upper Tansil 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 Upper Tansil Dam last inspected?
Upper Tansil Dam was last inspected on February 26, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.