Merrill Karlen #1
Key Takeaway
Merrill Karlen #1 is classified as low hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1954 and is 72 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 28 ft (taller than 77.7% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 400 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 23 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 20 acre-ft |
| Max Discharge | 2,100 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1954 (72 years old) |
| NID ID | SD01149 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
MERILL KARLEN
Private
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Low Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Merrill Karlen #1?
Merrill Karlen #1 is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Merrill Karlen #1?
Merrill Karlen #1 is owned by MERILL KARLEN (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Merrill Karlen #1 built?
Merrill Karlen #1 was completed in 1954, making it 72 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 Karlen #1?
Merrill Karlen #1 serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Merrill Karlen #1?
Merrill Karlen #1 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.