Merrill Creek Main Dam
Key Takeaway
Merrill Creek Main Dam is classified as high hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1988 and is 38 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 | 280 ft (taller than 99.9% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 1,140 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Normal Storage | 46.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 690 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1988 (38 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00864 |
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
Merrill Creek Owners Group
Private
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Low Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Merrill Creek Main Dam?
Merrill Creek Main 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 Merrill Creek Main Dam?
Merrill Creek Main Dam is owned by Merrill Creek Owners Group (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Merrill Creek Main Dam built?
Merrill Creek Main Dam was completed in 1988, making it 38 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 Merrill Creek Main Dam?
Merrill Creek Main Dam serves the following purposes: Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Merrill Creek Main Dam?
Merrill Creek Main Dam has a dam height of 280 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 Merrill Creek Main Dam last inspected?
Merrill Creek Main Dam was last inspected on June 9, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.