Merritt Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Merritt Lake, also known as Grant Ave Bridge, is a Federal-owned recreational water resource located in Leavenworth, Kansas.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This man-made lake, completed in 1860, serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife pond and recreation. With a dam height of 20 feet and a hydraulic height of 22 feet, Merritt Lake offers a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy its 7-acre surface area surrounded by a drainage area of 280 acres.

Managed by the US Army, Merritt Lake boasts a low hazard potential and very high risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, and the last inspection was conducted in 2016. The controlled spillway and 55-acre-feet of storage capacity ensure the safety and stability of the dam structure. With its historical significance and recreational offerings, Merritt Lake is a must-visit destination for those interested in water resources and climate preservation efforts in the heart of Kansas.

Year Completed

1860

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Trib Missouri River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

280

Nid Storage

55

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.