Merritt Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Overby Dam Smart Dam
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Merritt Dam, located in Patrick, Virginia, is a private structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet with a length of 540 feet, creating a reservoir with a capacity of 57 acre-feet. While its hazard potential is labeled as undetermined and its condition assessment remains unrated, the dam is inspected annually to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
Even though specific details such as the year of completion and spillway type are not provided, Merritt Dam serves a vital purpose in water resource management in the region. With a normal storage capacity of 41 acre-feet and a surface area of 3.4 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and storage in the area. Its presence contributes to the overall water management efforts in the region.
While the risk assessment, emergency action plan, and inundation maps for Merritt Dam are currently unspecified, the frequent inspections and state regulatory oversight indicate a commitment to ensuring the safety of the structure and surrounding areas. As a key component in the water resource infrastructure of Patrick, Virginia, Merritt Dam stands as a testament to the importance of proper dam management and maintenance in the face of changing climate conditions and water resource needs.
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
34 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
34 |
Nid Storage |
57 |
Structural Height |
34 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
34 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dan River Near Francisco
|
80cfs |
South Mayo River Near Nettleridge
|
48cfs |
Mayo River Near Price
|
132cfs |
North Mayo River Near Spencer
|
61cfs |
Smith River At Smith Riv Church Nr Woolwine
|
21cfs |
Dan R At Pine Hall
|
229cfs |
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.
Merritt Dam