Carthage State Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Tannery - Dam "A" West End Dam
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Carthage State Dam, located in Carthage, New York, is a historic concrete dam built in 1854 along the Black River for navigation purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 8 feet and a length of 829 feet, this dam provides a storage capacity of 2400 acre-feet and has a surface area of 690 acres. It serves as a vital structure for managing water flow and ensuring navigation along the river.
Although the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, it poses a moderate risk level (3) according to the available data. The last inspection date recorded was in August 1996, indicating a need for more frequent evaluations to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 654 feet, indicating its ability to handle maximum discharges of up to 4900 cfs.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Carthage State Dam stands as a significant piece of infrastructure that plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. As a private-owned structure with state jurisdiction, it represents a balance between historical significance and modern-day functionality. With its moderate risk level and historical importance, the dam serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between human engineering and natural water systems.
Year Completed |
1854 |
Dam Length |
829 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
BLACK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
690 |
Drainage Area |
1800 |
Nid Storage |
2400 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
8 |
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.
Carthage State Dam