Carlin Reservoir Report
Nearby: Spring Lake Blue Spring Lake
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Carlin is a gravity dam located in the Village of Palmyra, Wisconsin, along the Scuppernong River.
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Summary
Completed in 1943, this recreational structure stands at a height of 17 feet and has a storage capacity of 510.5 acre-feet. With a normal storage level of 115.2 acre-feet, Carlin covers a surface area of 17 acres and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the Jefferson County region.
Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR), Carlin has a low hazard potential and is classified as being in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in November 2020. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 51 feet, offering a safe outlet for excess water during periods of high discharge. While the associated structures have not been specified, Carlin undergoes regular inspections every 10 years to ensure its operational integrity and public safety.
Despite its moderate risk assessment, Carlin remains a beloved recreational site for visitors seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Scuppernong River. Supported by state regulatory agencies and enforcement mechanisms, this dam exemplifies the balance between human enjoyment and environmental preservation in the context of water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Years Modified |
2010 - Other |
Year Completed |
1943 |
Dam Length |
325 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
SCUPPERNONG RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
17 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
35 |
Nid Storage |
510.5 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Carlin