Eva Murphy #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Eva Murphy #1, also known as Center Dam #3, is a private-owned earth dam located in Fergus County, Montana.


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Summary

Completed in 1940, this dam serves primarily for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes. With a height of 16 feet and a length of 300 feet, Eva Murphy #1 has a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 22 acre-feet.

Situated on TR-South Fork Bear Creek, Eva Murphy #1 is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting processes. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential dam, its condition assessment remains unrated, reflecting the need for further evaluation and risk management measures. Located in a picturesque setting, Eva Murphy #1 plays a crucial role in local water resource management and ecosystem support in the region.

As a significant water resource structure in the area, Eva Murphy #1 provides vital services for fire protection, livestock, and recreational purposes. Although its risk assessment and condition assessment are not currently rated, the dam's low hazard potential underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality for the community. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Eva Murphy #1 represents a fascinating example of human-engineered infrastructure intersecting with natural ecosystems in the Montana landscape.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH FORK BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

67

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.