Merced Falls is a captivating hydroelectric facility located in Snelling, California, along the picturesque Merced River. Built in 1901, this concrete dam stands at a height of 43 feet and boasts a structural height of 34 feet. With a storage capacity of 678 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 603 acre-feet, Merced Falls plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Managed by a public utility agency and regulated by the Department of Water Resources' Safety of Dams division, Merced Falls is equipped with a controlled spillway and three Tainter (radial) outlet gates. The dam's hazard potential is rated as high, with a very high risk assessment score of 1. Despite limited data on its current condition, regular inspections by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission ensure the dam's operational safety and compliance with regulatory standards.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Merced Falls serves as a historic and essential piece of California's hydroelectric infrastructure. Its location in the beautiful Merced County, coupled with its impressive engineering features and environmental impact, make it a site worth exploring for those interested in the intersection of water management, renewable energy, and sustainable resource utilization.