Lake Merkel Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Berkeley, South Carolina, Lake Merkel Dam stands as a vital water resource structure with a storage capacity of 133 acre-feet and a surface area of 28 acres.
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Summary
The dam, with a height of 12 feet, plays a crucial role in water management and conservation in the region. Despite its importance, the condition assessment of the dam is currently marked as 'Not Rated,' indicating a need for further evaluation and monitoring.
While the hazard potential of the dam remains 'Undetermined,' the lack of a specific risk assessment and management plan underscores the need for proactive measures to ensure the safety and integrity of Lake Merkel Dam. With no designated primary purpose or dam type listed, it is essential for relevant agencies and stakeholders to assess the structural stability and overall functionality of the dam to mitigate potential risks and safeguard the surrounding communities and ecosystems. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, addressing the condition and maintenance of Lake Merkel Dam becomes increasingly urgent.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the state of Lake Merkel Dam serves as a call-to-action for enhanced monitoring, risk assessment, and management strategies. With its strategic location and vital role in water management, Lake Merkel Dam represents a significant asset that requires careful oversight and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. Prioritizing the assessment and upkeep of this essential water resource structure is crucial for sustaining water security and resilience in the region.
Dam Height |
12 |
Surface Area |
28 |
Nid Storage |
133 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Edisto River Nr Givhans
|
1100cfs |
Lake Moultrie Tailrace Canal At Moncks Corner
|
1070cfs |
Santee River Near Pineville
|
615cfs |
Back River At Dupont Intake Nr Kittredge
|
2390cfs |
Santee River Nr Jamestown
|
1500cfs |
North Fork Edisto River At Orangeburg
|
900cfs |
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.
Lake Merkel Dam