Merritt South Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Merritt South Lake Dam, located in Weston, Georgia, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 2011, this dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a storage capacity of 351 acre-feet. With a surface area of 27.6 acres, this dam offers a serene retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation in the surrounding area.

Despite its low hazard potential, Merritt South Lake Dam is subject to regular inspections, with the last one conducted in February 2019. The dam's condition is currently not rated, but it poses a moderate risk, as indicated by a risk assessment rating of 3. While the dam has uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, it is important for authorities to continue monitoring and implementing risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure for both recreational users and the surrounding environment.

Overall, Merritt South Lake Dam serves as a valuable resource for the local community in Webster County, Georgia, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore this picturesque location, they can appreciate the balance between human enjoyment and the need for responsible dam management to mitigate potential risks and ensure long-term sustainability in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

2011

Dam Length

690

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

Unknown

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27.6

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

351

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
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.