Murtaugh Lake, located in Twin Falls, Idaho, is a privately owned reservoir with a primary purpose of irrigation.
Wind
Humidity
The dam, completed in 1905, stands at a height of 42.2 feet and has a controlled spillway with a width of 26 feet. The lake has a storage capacity of 7,720 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 827 acres, serving as a vital water resource for the region.
With a drainage area of 238 square miles, Murtaugh Lake plays a crucial role in water management and agriculture in the area. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in October 2019. Its location near the Snake River and Dry Creek makes it a key component of the local water infrastructure, ensuring a stable water supply for irrigation purposes.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Murtaugh Lake an intriguing example of early 20th-century dam engineering, with its earth and stone construction standing the test of time. The reservoir's risk assessment is marked as very high, emphasizing the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and efficiency of this vital water resource for the community.
Year Completed |
1905 |
Dam Length |
8000 |
Dam Height |
42.2 |
River Or Stream |
DRY CREEK SNAKE RIVER |
Surface Area |
827 |
Hydraulic Height |
38.7 |
Drainage Area |
238 |
Nid Storage |
7720 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
42 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Murtaugh Lake RV Park
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Milner Historic Recreation Area
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Bass Point Dispersed Area
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Bass Bay Dispersed Area
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Schipper
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Schipper Campground
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