Carson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Carson Dam, located in Carson, New Mexico, serves as a key player in flood risk reduction along the Rio Grande.


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Summary

Built in 1935, this earth dam stands at a height of 55 feet and spans a length of 615 feet, with a storage capacity of 7,622 acre-feet. Despite its crucial role in mitigating flood risks, Carson Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition with a high hazard potential, highlighting the need for maintenance and rehabilitation efforts.

Managed by a private entity, Carson Dam falls under the regulatory oversight of the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico. The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled and 2,000 feet wide, is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 12,600 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 176 square miles, Carson Dam plays a vital role in protecting downstream communities from potential flooding events.

Despite its poor condition assessment and high hazard potential, Carson Dam continues to stand as a critical infrastructure for flood risk reduction in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and support efforts to maintain and enhance the safety and functionality of Carson Dam to ensure its continued effectiveness in protecting communities along the Rio Grande.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

615

Dam Height

55

River Or Stream

RIO GRANDE - TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

390

Drainage Area

176

Nid Storage

7622

Structural Height

65

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

65
       
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.