Lake Merritt Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Merritt Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1917 and is 109 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 28 ft (taller than 61.3% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 1,310 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 962 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 98 acres |
| Drainage Area | 12 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1917 (109 years old) |
| NID ID | TX03315 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
MILLS COUNTY HUNTING AND FISHING CLUB
Private
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Low Hazard 30 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Merritt Dam?
Lake Merritt Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Lake Merritt Dam?
Lake Merritt Dam is owned by MILLS COUNTY HUNTING AND FISHING CLUB (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Merritt Dam built?
Lake Merritt Dam was completed in 1917, making it 109 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Lake Merritt Dam?
Lake Merritt Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake Merritt Dam?
Lake Merritt Dam has a dam height of 28 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Lake Merritt Dam last inspected?
Lake Merritt Dam was last inspected on November 6, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.