Merrett Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Merrett Pond Dam, located in Shellman, Georgia, is a private-owned earth dam that spans 765 feet across Merrett Creek.


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Summary

With a height of 14.5 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 585 acre-feet, the dam primarily serves a recreational purpose, providing a serene backdrop for outdoor activities in the area. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition, and the last inspection took place in October 2015, indicating a need for more consistent monitoring to ensure its safety and effectiveness.

The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates suggest a relatively simple design, while the surrounding drainage area of 53.8 acres highlights its importance in managing water resources for the local ecosystem. The moderate risk assessment score of 3 underscores the need for continued risk management measures and emergency preparedness planning, especially given its proximity to residential areas. As climate change impacts water resources across the globe, understanding and maintaining structures like Merrett Pond Dam will be crucial in safeguarding communities and the environment from potential water-related risks and disasters.

Dam Length

765

Dam Height

14.5

River Or Stream

MERRETT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

53.8

Hydraulic Height

13.2

Nid Storage

585

Structural Height

13.2

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.