Murphey Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Apex Lake Dam Bowman Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Murphey Lake Dam, located in Maries County, Missouri, stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and serves as a primary source of recreation for local residents and visitors alike.
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Summary
Built in 1963, this private earth dam boasts a height of 27 feet and a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet, providing ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation on its 10-acre surface area. Although its primary purpose is for recreation, the dam also plays a crucial role in flood control and water resource management in the region.
Despite its high hazard potential, Murphey Lake Dam's condition assessment remains unrated, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and inundation maps preparation are also currently unspecified, raising concerns about its readiness in the face of potential disasters. As a significant feature along the Little Fly Creek, the dam's management and operation are essential to safeguarding the surrounding communities and ecosystems from the impacts of flooding and water scarcity, especially in the face of changing climate patterns.
With its rich history, scenic beauty, and vital role in water resource management, Murphey Lake Dam stands as a symbol of harmonious coexistence between human recreation and environmental conservation. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the proper stewardship of dams like Murphey Lake becomes increasingly crucial for ensuring sustainable water use and resilience in the face of environmental challenges. By prioritizing regular inspection, maintenance, and emergency preparedness, stakeholders can uphold the dam's integrity and maximize its benefits for present and future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE FLY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
225 |
Nid Storage |
144 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Gasconade River At Jerome
|
944cfs |
Little Piney Creek At Newburg
|
82cfs |
Gasconade River Near Rich Fountain
|
1030cfs |
Maries River At Westphalia
|
21cfs |
Bourbeuse River Near High Gate
|
2cfs |
Osage River Below St. Thomas
|
1450cfs |
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.
Murphey Lake Dam