Merrill Dorland Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: West Lake Dam Arbor Valley Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
The Merrill Dorland Dam, located in West Lake, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for grade stabilization purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 2014, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a length of 332 feet, with a primary function of grade stabilization along the TR - West Lake river or stream. The dam also serves for recreation and water supply purposes, providing a surface area of 2 acres and a drainage area of 0.12 square miles.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the Merrill Dorland Dam is an essential feature in the region's water resource management. Its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates contribute to its functionality, ensuring the safe release of excess water. While the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, its construction and design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service reflect a commitment to sustainable water management practices. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find the Merrill Dorland Dam a fascinating example of infrastructure that balances environmental protection with human needs.
Year Completed |
2014 |
Dam Length |
332 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
TR - West Lake |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Drainage Area |
0.12 |
Nid Storage |
31 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Merrill Dorland Dam