Carite Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Patillas Dam Cidra Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Carite Dam, located in Guayama, Puerto Rico, is a significant hydroelectric structure built in 1913 by the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority.
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Summary
Situated along the La Plata River, this earth dam stands at a height of 104 feet and has a storage capacity of 17,349 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, recreation, and water supply for the surrounding areas.
Despite its age, Carite Dam has undergone structural modifications in 2003 to ensure its continued functionality. The dam's spillway, with a width of 120 feet, helps manage high water discharge during heavy rainfall events. However, the dam has been classified as having a high hazard potential and a poor condition assessment, prompting regular inspections and risk assessments to ensure its safety and reliability. With its rich history and importance in water resource management, Carite Dam remains a vital infrastructure for Puerto Rico's water and energy needs.
Years Modified |
2003 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1913 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
104 |
River Or Stream |
LA PLATA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
333 |
Hydraulic Height |
99 |
Drainage Area |
7.92 |
Nid Storage |
17349 |
Structural Height |
104 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
104 |
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.
Carite Dam