Merritt Large Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Merritt Large Lake Dam, located in Weston, Georgia, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

It stands at a height of 17.4 feet and has a hydraulic height of 16.6 feet. The dam has a length of 897 feet and can hold a maximum storage capacity of 560 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 291 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the Little Bear Creek and is under the jurisdiction of the state, with regular inspections conducted to ensure its structural integrity.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 3 out of 5. The condition of the dam is currently not rated, but it has not undergone any recent modifications or assessments. In the event of an emergency, the dam has an unspecified emergency action plan in place, although details about its preparedness and compliance with guidelines are not available. Overall, Merritt Large Lake Dam serves as a vital resource for irrigation in the area, with a surface area of 48.5 acres and a significant storage capacity to support agricultural needs in the region.

Dam Length

897

Dam Height

17.4

River Or Stream

Little Bear Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

48.5

Hydraulic Height

16.6

Nid Storage

560

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
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.