Merry Hills Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Merry Hills Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1960 and is 66 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 Length | 330 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 38 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 32 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4 acres |
| Drainage Area | 58 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 165 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1960 (66 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2011 |
| NID ID | NC00179 |
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
OL Johnson
Private
Nearby Dams
Davis Lake Dam #1
Davidson, NC
High HazardDavis Lake Dam #2
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Significant HazardSwansgate Dam #1
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High HazardJohnson Dam
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High HazardBill Millis Dam
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Low HazardCascade Drive Dam
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High HazardWillow Creek Dam #2
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Significant HazardHutton Dam
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High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Merry Hills Lake Dam?
Merry Hills Lake 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 Merry Hills Lake Dam?
Merry Hills Lake Dam is owned by OL Johnson (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Merry Hills Lake Dam built?
Merry Hills Lake Dam was completed in 1960, making it 66 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 Merry Hills Lake Dam?
Merry Hills 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.
When was Merry Hills Lake Dam last inspected?
Merry Hills Lake Dam was last inspected on December 15, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.