Murphy Lake Level Control Structure Reservoir Report
Nearby: Henson Dam Hemingway Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Murphy Lake Level Control Structure, also known as Murphy Lake Dam, is a privately owned dam located in Vassar, Michigan.
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Summary
Built in 1928, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and spans a length of 180 feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a storage capacity of 1000 acre-feet and a surface area of 203 acres.
Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), this structure is regulated and inspected by the state to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. With a controlled spillway width of 16 feet and a maximum discharge of 300 cubic feet per second, the Murphy Lake Level Control Structure has a low hazard potential and is rated in satisfactory condition. Despite its age and the surrounding area's very high risk of flooding, this dam continues to serve its recreational function effectively.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Murphy Lake Level Control Structure provides a fascinating case study in dam management and risk assessment. While it faces potential risks due to its location and age, the structure's regular inspections and maintenance help mitigate these concerns. Its role in managing water levels on Goodings Creek showcases the importance of proper infrastructure in balancing human recreation with environmental conservation in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1928 |
Dam Length |
180 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
Goodings Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
203 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
7.3 |
Nid Storage |
1000 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Branch Flint River Near Columbiaville
|
85cfs |
Flint River Near Otisville
|
131cfs |
Cass River At Frankenmuth
|
87cfs |
Farmers Creek Near Lapeer
|
10cfs |
Kearsley Creek Near Davison
|
12cfs |
Flint River Near Flint
|
225cfs |
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 Lake Level Control Structure