Merrill Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Merrill Lake Dam is classified as low hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1957 and is 69 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 27 ft (taller than 49% in MO) |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 390 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 215 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 27 acres |
| Drainage Area | 280 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1957 (69 years old) |
| NID ID | MO30052 |
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
MO DEPT OF CONSERVATION
State Government
Nearby Dams
Mononame 50 Dam
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Low Hazard 10 ftHill and Dale Dam East
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High Hazard 22 ftHill and Dale Dam West
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High Hazard 25 ftElm Springs Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 25 ftNeil Land Development Corp Dam-South
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Low Hazard 30 ftCarnahan Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 21 ftNeil Land Development Corp Dam-North
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Low Hazard 32 ftClearwater Dam
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High Hazard 154 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Merrill Lake Dam?
Merrill Lake Dam 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 Lake Dam?
Merrill Lake Dam is owned by MO DEPT OF CONSERVATION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Merrill Lake Dam built?
Merrill Lake Dam was completed in 1957, making it 69 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 Lake Dam?
Merrill Lake 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 Merrill Lake Dam?
Merrill Lake Dam has a dam height of 27 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.