Merry Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Merry Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1966 and is 60 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 21 ft (taller than 74.1% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 450 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 3.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 100 acres |
| Drainage Area | 27 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,400 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1966 (60 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00413 |
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
Hillsdale County Drain Commissioner
Private
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Low Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Merry Lake Dam?
Merry 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 Merry Lake Dam?
Merry Lake Dam is owned by Hillsdale County Drain Commissioner (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Merry Lake Dam built?
Merry Lake Dam was completed in 1966, making it 60 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 Lake Dam?
Merry 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 Merry Lake Dam?
Merry Lake Dam has a dam height of 21 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 Merry Lake Dam last inspected?
Merry Lake Dam was last inspected on October 24, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.