Maerkle
Key Takeaway
Maerkle is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 165 ft (taller than 91.8% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 800 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 600 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 14 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1963 (63 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00844 |
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
Carlsbad Municipal Water District
Public Utility
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High Hazard 309 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Maerkle?
Maerkle 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 Maerkle?
Maerkle is owned by Carlsbad Municipal Water District (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Maerkle built?
Maerkle was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Maerkle?
Maerkle serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Maerkle?
Maerkle has a dam height of 165 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 Maerkle last inspected?
Maerkle was last inspected on January 7, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.