Merlin Reservoir Report
Nearby: Waldo #2 Saylor Reservoir
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Merlin is a privately owned dam located in Jordan, Montana, along the TR-LONE TREE CREEK.
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Summary
Built in 1954 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 30 feet in height and spans 600 feet in length, serving primarily for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes. With a storage capacity of 183 acre-feet and a drainage area of 16.5 square miles, Merlin plays a crucial role in water resource management in Garfield County.
Managed by the DNRC, Merlin has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Despite lacking certain details such as the last inspection date and inspection frequency, the dam's overall structural integrity is maintained to ensure the safety of the surrounding community. With its strategic location and importance for local water supply and fire protection, Merlin serves as a vital infrastructure for the sustainable development and climate resilience of the region.
As an essential component of the local water resource system, Merlin highlights the collaborative efforts between private owners, government agencies, and designers to safeguard water availability and protect against potential hazards. With its history dating back to the mid-20th century, this dam continues to play a crucial role in ensuring water security and environmental sustainability in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Merlin represents a prime example of responsible dam construction and management in Montana.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LONE TREE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
16.5 |
Nid Storage |
183 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Merlin