Murphy Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Murphy, located in Routt County, Colorado, is a privately owned irrigation dam built in 1956 by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

With a maximum storage capacity of 22,700 acre-feet, it primarily serves the purpose of irrigation for the surrounding area. The dam stands at a height of 100 feet and has a hydraulic height of 97 feet, with a structural height of 114 feet.

Situated on the Tr-Elk River in Glen Elden, Murphy not only supports irrigation but also provides benefits for fish and wildlife ponds, as well as recreational activities in the area. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential dam, Murphy's condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Available." The dam has a drainage area of 2.12 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 6,100 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Murphy plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region. As a key infrastructure for irrigation and environmental conservation, ongoing inspections and risk assessments will be essential to ensure the continued safety and efficiency of this vital water resource.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

6900

Dam Height

100

River Or Stream

Tr-Elk River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

97

Drainage Area

2.12

Nid Storage

22700

Structural Height

114

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

114
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.