Merritt Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Merritt Lake Dam, also known as Betty Boop Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Lapeer, Michigan.


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Summary

Completed in 1953, this gravity-type dam stands at a height of 13 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes. Situated on Farmers Creek, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 150 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 25 acres.

Despite its fair condition assessment, Merritt Lake Dam poses a significant hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. With a moderate risk rating, the dam has an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 7 feet. Its emergency action plan (EAP) has been prepared and updated, ensuring that proper risk management measures are in place to mitigate any potential threats to the surrounding areas.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Merritt Lake Dam to be an intriguing structure that not only provides recreational opportunities but also highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams to ensure public safety and environmental protection. As a significant part of the local landscape, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between water resources management and the potential risks associated with dam infrastructure.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

Farmers Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

12.7

Drainage Area

3.6

Nid Storage

150

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

13
       
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.