Murphy's Lake West End Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Murphy's Lake West End is a private fish and wildlife pond located in Wardens, Richland, Louisiana.
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Summary
Managed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam was completed in 1960 and stands at a height of 20 feet, with a length of 650 feet. With a storage capacity of 260 acre-feet and a surface area of 44 acres, the dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock maintenance, and recreational activities.
This low hazard potential structure on Bayou Macon is regulated by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards. Despite being classified as fair in condition assessment, the dam poses a moderate risk due to its age and the potential for structural issues. With a spillway width of 19 feet and a maximum discharge of 360 cubic feet per second, Murphy's Lake West End is a vital water resource for the surrounding community and a haven for diverse wildlife.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the conservation and maintenance of Murphy's Lake West End is paramount to sustaining the delicate ecosystem it supports. By adhering to state regulations, conducting regular inspections, and implementing risk management measures, this dam can continue to provide essential water storage and recreational opportunities while minimizing environmental impact. Its significance as a fish and wildlife habitat underscores the importance of preserving and enhancing this vital water resource for future generations to enjoy and appreciate.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
BAYOU MACON |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
44 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
0.36 |
Nid Storage |
260 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tensas River At Tendal
|
120cfs |
Boeuf River Nr Girard
|
128cfs |
Bayou Lafourche Near Crew Lake
|
3190cfs |
Bayou Bartholomew Near Jones
|
322cfs |
Bayou Macon Nr Kilbourne
|
132cfs |
Chemin-A-Haut Byu Nr Beekman
|
132cfs |
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's Lake West End