Murphy Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Murphy Pond Dam, also known as Tanner Lake Dam, is a private earth dam located in Bacon County, Georgia.
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Summary
Built in 1963 by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS), this dam stands at a height of 13 feet and stretches 525 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond, with a storage capacity of 108 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 39 acre-feet.
Despite not being state regulated, Murphy Pond Dam is subject to regular inspections, with the last one conducted in July 2016, revealing a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks or control mechanisms. Its condition is currently not rated, and there is no emergency action plan in place.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Murphy Pond Dam to be an interesting case study in private dam management, as it showcases the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of such structures. With its unique design and purpose, this dam serves as a vital resource for local fire protection and wildlife conservation efforts in the area.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
525 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
825 |
Nid Storage |
108 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Altamaha River Near Baxley
|
3480cfs |
Ocmulgee River At Lumber City
|
2080cfs |
Little Satilla River Near Offerman
|
2cfs |
Satilla River Near Waycross
|
45cfs |
Ohoopee River Near Reidsville
|
105cfs |
Turnpike Creek Near Mcrae
|
0cfs |
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.
Murphy Pond Dam