Mertz Lake Dam is a privately owned structure located in St.
Wind
Humidity
Charles, Missouri, and serves primarily for recreational purposes. This earthen dam, completed in 1954, stands at a height of 24 feet and has a storage capacity of 39 acre-feet. It is situated along the TR to Creve Coeur Creek and covers a surface area of 3 acres within a drainage area of 42 square miles.
Despite its recreational function, Mertz Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential as it is not currently rated for its condition. The dam does not fall under state regulation or jurisdiction, with no permitting, inspection, or enforcement measures in place. Its Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status, risk assessment, and inundation maps remain unaddressed, reflecting potential vulnerabilities in emergency preparedness and overall risk management.
The dam's association with the Kansas City District of the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is unclear, and there is limited federal involvement in its ownership, funding, design, construction, regulation, inspection, or operation. With its significant hazard potential and absence of comprehensive risk management measures, Mertz Lake Dam represents a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of recreational infrastructure and dam safety in the Missouri region.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR TO CREVE COEUR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Drainage Area |
42 |
Nid Storage |
39 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |