E. G. Merritt Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

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Summary

G. Merritt is a privately owned earth dam located in Montezuma, Colorado, with a primary purpose of irrigation. Constructed in 1978 by designer Percy Krantz, this dam stands at a height of 21 feet and a length of 620 feet, with a storage capacity of 68 acre-feet. Situated along the Alkali Canyon-TR river or stream, it serves as a vital resource for fire protection, stock, and small fish ponds in addition to irrigation.

Despite its low hazard potential, E. G. Merritt has an unsatisfactory condition assessment as of February 2016. With a moderate risk level and a 6-year inspection frequency, this dam raises concerns for potential improvements and risk management measures. The spillway width of 26 feet and uncontrolled spillway type indicate the need for careful monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of this water resource infrastructure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in E. G. Merritt will find its location in the picturesque setting of Bluff, UT, a captivating aspect. The dam's historical significance and contribution to the local ecosystem make it a focal point for understanding water management practices in the region. As a privately owned structure regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, E. G. Merritt presents a case study for sustainable water resource management and the importance of regular inspections and maintenance for dam safety.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

620

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

ALKALI CANYON-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

68

Structural Height

21

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

21
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.