Merced Falls Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Merced Falls is a captivating hydroelectric facility located in Snelling, California, along the picturesque Merced River.


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Summary

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.

Year Completed

1901

Dam Length

1679

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

Merced River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

65

Hydraulic Height

29

Drainage Area

1020

Nid Storage

678

Structural Height

34

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 3

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

43
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.