Summary
Completed in 1840, this historic structure stands at a height of 10 feet and spans 700 feet in length, creating a surface area of 38 acres and holding a maximum storage capacity of 168 acre-feet. The dam regulates the flow of the Bark River and has a controlled spillway with a width of 23 feet.
Despite its fair condition assessment, Merton Rolling Mill has been designated as a high hazard potential structure due to its age and proximity to residential areas. The dam is inspected every two years, with the most recent assessment conducted in October 2019. The risk assessment for the site ranks as very high (1), prompting the need for stringent risk management measures to ensure public safety and protect the surrounding community from potential inundation events. Overall, Merton Rolling Mill serves as both a recreational asset and a critical water resource in the region, requiring ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks associated with its aging infrastructure.
Years Modified |
1967 - Other |
Year Completed |
1840 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
BARK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
38 |
Hydraulic Height |
6 |
Drainage Area |
26.2 |
Nid Storage |
168 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Merton Rolling Mill
Keesus Lake -- Access
Monches Recreational Park
Hartbrook Park
Kettle Moraine State Forest Lowe Lake Unit
State Forest Kettle Moraine
Bark River Park