State-Murphy Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Murphy + Sons #1 Murphy #1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
State-Murphy Dam, also known as Waller's Duck Pond, is a state-owned structure located in McCone County, Montana.
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Summary
Built in 1936, this earth dam stands at a height of 15.2 meters and spans a length of 530 meters. With a primary purpose classified as 'Other', the dam's storage capacity reaches a maximum of 87 acre-feet, providing vital water resources for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), State-Murphy Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's condition remains unrated. The spillway, with a width of 50 meters, is uncontrolled, further highlighting the importance of proper monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of this critical infrastructure.
Located on TR-Nelson Creek near Fort Peck Lake, State-Murphy Dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation within the region. With a surface area of 12.6 hectares and a drainage area of 854 square kilometers, this dam serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem and water supply infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is imperative to prioritize the maintenance and management of structures like State-Murphy Dam to safeguard against potential risks and ensure resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
530 |
Dam Height |
15.2 |
River Or Stream |
TR-Nelson Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
13.9 |
Drainage Area |
854 |
Nid Storage |
87 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nelson Creek Near Van Norman Mt
|
33cfs |
Redwater River At Circle Mt
|
4cfs |
Missouri River Near Wolf Point Mt
|
5020cfs |
Milk River At Nashua Mt
|
233cfs |
Poplar River Near Poplar Mt
|
28cfs |
Yellowstone River At Glendive Mt
|
6000cfs |
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.
State-Murphy Dam