Merriewold Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 29, 2025

Located in Fowlerville, New York, the Merriewold Lake Dam stands as a testament to engineering excellence since its completion in 1914.


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Summary

This private dam, owned and regulated by the NYS DEC, serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a serene setting for water enthusiasts to enjoy. With a height of 10 feet and a length of 245 feet, the dam boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 10 feet, ensuring the safety and stability of the structure.

The dam's significant hazard potential underscores the importance of regular inspections, with the last inspection conducted in September 2019. Despite being deemed as not rated in terms of condition assessment, the risk assessment indicates a very high risk level (1). While the Emergency Action Plan status and risk management measures remain unspecified, the dam's strategic location on TR-BLACK BROOK and its substantial storage capacity of 100 acre-feet highlight its critical role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Merriewold Lake Dam serves as both a recreational hub and a vital infrastructure element in Sullivan, New York. With its historical significance, engineering design, and risk profile, this earth dam stands as a symbol of the intricate balance between human development and environmental stewardship in safeguarding our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

245

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TR-BLACK BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

38

Nid Storage

100

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.