Maerkle dam, located in Carlsbad, California, serves as a vital water supply structure in the region, primarily for irrigation and water supply purposes. Completed in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 165 feet and has a storage capacity of 600 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Tr Aqua Hedionda river and has a surface area of 14 acres, serving as a crucial resource for the local community.

Managed by a public utility, Maerkle dam is regulated and inspected by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program. With a high hazard potential, the dam's condition has been assessed as satisfactory, ensuring its structural integrity and safety. The last inspection took place in January 2020, with a scheduled frequency of one inspection per year, highlighting the ongoing efforts to monitor and maintain the dam's operations.

In the event of an emergency, the dam is equipped with an Emergency Action Plan (EAP), although details regarding its preparation and guidelines compliance are not specified in the available data. With its critical role in water resource management and the potential risks associated with its high hazard rating, Maerkle dam stands as a key infrastructure element in the region's water supply system, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts.