Brantley Reservoir Report
Nearby: Avalon Hackberry Draw Site No. 1 Dam
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Brantley Dam, located in Carlsbad, New Mexico, along the Pecos River, is a federal structure managed by the Bureau of Reclamation for flood risk reduction, irrigation, and recreation purposes.
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Summary
This concrete arch dam, completed in 1989, stands at a height of 144 feet and has a storage capacity of 966,300 acre-feet. With a hazard potential rated as high and risk assessment categorized as very high, Brantley Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating potential risks in the region.
The dam's impressive dimensions include a hydraulic height of 108 feet, a length of 20,850 feet, and a spillway width of 350 feet. Its primary purpose of flood risk reduction underscores its vital role in protecting surrounding areas from potential flooding events. Brantley Dam's strategic location and design make it a key infrastructure for water resource management in Eddy County, New Mexico, with a drainage area of 16,406 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 352,000 cubic feet per second.
As a federal structure owned and regulated by the Bureau of Reclamation, Brantley Dam undergoes regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Its very high risk assessment highlights the importance of proactive risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and environment. With its significant storage capacity and flood risk reduction capabilities, Brantley Dam stands as a critical asset for water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1989 |
Dam Length |
20850 |
Dam Height |
144 |
River Or Stream |
PECOS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
39301 |
Hydraulic Height |
108 |
Drainage Area |
16406 |
Nid Storage |
966300 |
Structural Height |
118 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
144 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Brantley Lake State Park
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Avalon Resevoir Campground
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Alkali Lake OHV Dispersed
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Brantley
Brantley Lake
Avalon Reservoir