Lake Merle (Eaglehead Drive) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Lake Merle (Eaglehead Drive), also known as Meadowlake Dam, is a private water resource nestled in Frederick, Maryland.


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Summary

This picturesque dam, built in 1971 by Balter and later repaired by Greenhorne & O'Mara, stands at a height of 43.65 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 303 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, this earth dam with stone core provides a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming.

Managed by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, Lake Merle is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safe operation. The dam, located on Linganore Creek-TR, has a spillway width of 100 feet and a maximum discharge of 1500 cubic feet per second. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam is currently in satisfactory condition, meeting regulatory guidelines and posing a moderate risk level of 3.

Visitors to Lake Merle can appreciate its 12-acre surface area, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and wildlife. With a drainage area of 0.6 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 141 acre-feet, this tranquil reservoir offers a peaceful retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking a recreational escape in the heart of Maryland.

Years Modified

1998 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

43.65

River Or Stream

Linganore Creek-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

303

Outlet Gates

Needle - 0

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

44
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.