Murray Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Murray Dam, located in Rathbun Reservoir, Iowa, was completed in 1996 by the USDA NRCS and serves multiple purposes, including fire protection and creating a small fish pond.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at 29 feet high and spans 270 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 25 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam is not currently rated for its condition.

Managed by a private entity, Murray Dam plays a crucial role in the local water resource infrastructure, regulating the flow of the TR-Catfish Branch. With its uncontrolled spillway type and stone core foundation, the dam offers essential water storage for agricultural and recreational activities in the area. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Murray Dam's design and purpose fascinating, as it contributes to the sustainable management of water resources in Wayne County, Iowa.

Year Completed

1996

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

TR- CATFISH BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

0.07

Nid Storage

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.