Merritt Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Merritt Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1953 and is 73 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 13 ft (taller than 39.7% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 250 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 150 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 90 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 25 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 198 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1953 (73 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00798 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Merritt L Sub Div Association
Private
Nearby Dams
Lake Metamora Dam
Lapeer, MI
Significant Hazard 21 ftMinnawanna Dam
Lapeer, MI
Significant Hazard 33 ftJohnson Dam
Lapeer, MI
Low Hazard 28 ftUpper Reed Lake Dam
Lapeer, MI
Low Hazard 11 ftSnoblen Dam
Lapeer, MI
Low Hazard 13 ftYounglove Dam
Lapeer, MI
Low Hazard 8 ftLake Lapeer Lake Level Control Structure
Lapeer, MI
Significant Hazard 29 ftRivard Dam
Lapeer, MI
Low Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Merritt Lake Dam?
Merritt Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Merritt Lake Dam?
Merritt Lake Dam is owned by Merritt L Sub Div Association (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Merritt Lake Dam built?
Merritt Lake Dam was completed in 1953, making it 73 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 Merritt Lake Dam?
Merritt 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 Merritt Lake Dam?
Merritt Lake Dam has a dam height of 13 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 Merritt Lake Dam last inspected?
Merritt Lake Dam was last inspected on December 17, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.