Merlo
Key Takeaway
Merlo is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1982 and is 44 years old. Its primary use is other. 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 | 74 ft (taller than 74.3% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 210 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 930 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 45 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1982 (44 years old) |
| NID ID | CA01313 |
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
Private Entity
Private
Nearby Dams
Warm Springs Dam
Sonoma, CA
High Hazard 319 ftAsti
Sonoma, CA
Low Hazard 34 ftDutcher Creek
Sonoma, CA
High Hazard 43 ftCoen C-3
Sonoma, CA
Low Hazard 97 ftVineyard Subdivision
Sonoma, CA
Significant Hazard 26 ftDennis No. 2
Sonoma, CA
Low Hazard 60 ftCook No. 2
Sonoma, CA
High Hazard 35 ftNorton No. 2
Sonoma, CA
High Hazard 28 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Merlo?
Merlo 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 Merlo?
Merlo is owned by Private Entity (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Merlo built?
Merlo was completed in 1982, making it 44 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 Merlo?
Merlo serves the following purposes: Other, Irrigation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Merlo?
Merlo has a dam height of 74 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 Merlo last inspected?
Merlo was last inspected on February 3, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.