About Us
From a garage in 1949 to three generations strong, Merrill’s legacy flows through every hydrant we make.
Our Story
In the Beginning
In 1949, Noel Merrill Anderson founded Merrill Manufacturing Company with his invention of the Any Flow® Yard Hydrant. Like most humble beginnings, Noel began Merrill in his one-car garage in Des Moines, Iowa, where it remained until his relocation to the shores of Storm Lake, Iowa, in 1957. Though much change has happened, Merrill continues to employ and operate in Storm Lake today!
Room for Growth
In 1959, Merrill expanded upon its product offering by engineering the Merrill Pitless Units, which was soon followed by Merrill Tank Floats. The addition of these two lines, paired with the Any Flow® hydrant, set the foundation for Merrill’s offering, which has expanded to eleven full categories today. Along with the offering, Merrill has grown to three different buildings and roughly 60 employees to meet the demands of today’s market!
Family-Owned and Operated
In 1975, Noel’s son, Stephen Anderson, returned to the family business with an engineering degree and experience in the engineering field. In 1981, Stephen became the president of Merrill, while Noel maintained his office as chairman of the board.
Third Generation
In 2011, the family ties grow as Stephen’s youngest son Joel joins Merrill and is followed by older brother Matt in 2016.
Continuous Improvement
Willingness to change and avoiding complacency has always been a Merrill value. We strive to work efficiently and are accepting of new technology, changes to our production facility, and innovative product lines to keep pushing Merrill forward. We believe this instilled company attitude, paired with 23 product patents, propels Merrill as a leader in the water well industry!
Our Mission Statement
At our core, we are committed to the same principles that Merrill Manufacturing was founded on. We strive to deliver the best quality product, products that provide water, which should be accessible by all. We strive to bring safe, potable water to the world.
Who We Work With
National Groundwater Association
A community of groundwater professionals working together to advance groundwater knowledge and the success of our members through education and outreach; advocacy; cooperation and information exchange; and enhancement of professional practices.
National Groundwater Association
The Water Systems Council is committed to ensuring people everywhere have potable water. We have worked together extensively to raise money to build wells, provide emergency resources during times of disaster, and more.
Nebraska Well Drillers Association
The Nebraska Well Drillers Association has a long tradition in the groundwater industry in Nebraska. The Association was created in 1929.
Iowa Water Well Association
"Established in 1929, the Iowa Water Well Association works toward protecting the groundwater of Iowa and promoting the supply of clean water for everyone in the state. The association aims to be a strong source of information for legislators and the media."
Wisconsin Water Well Association
Their aim is "to increase the industry’s knowledge and understanding of proper drilling, pump installation, and well abandonment techniques; work with the appropriate state agencies in the protection of Wisconsin’s groundwater, and increase the public’s awareness of the importance of and involvement in groundwater efforts."
Our Culture
Creating a creative, inclusive, and family-centric environment is essential to providing the level of service we aspire to deliver.
Since 1949, we've known enabling a friendly work environment allows everyone at Merrill to bring the basic courtesy of kindness to every interaction with customers and each other.
Our Core Values
Do the Right Thing
Demonstrate sound moral and ethical principles no matter who is watching.
Passion for All We Do
Let your passion fuel your success—take pride in your work and use that energy to support teammates and customers.
Can do... Will do... Done
The attitude that it can be done, will be done and the ability to get it done.
We Before Me
Teamwork, helping and dedicating yourself to wanting to help others for the success of the company.
Solve Problems Together
Contribute and get involved. Help your team discover the solution to the problem.
Built on Trust. Made to Perform.
Explore Merrill products and count on the same trusted performance we’ve delivered for generations.