Murphy Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Murphy Dam, also known as Lake Francis Dam, is nestled in the picturesque Coos County of New Hampshire, along the majestic Connecticut River.


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Summary

This state-owned earth dam, standing at 106 feet tall and spanning 2200 feet in length, was completed in 1938 primarily for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of 132,000 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 99,500 acre-feet, the dam provides ample opportunities for water-based activities on its 1895-acre surface area.

Despite its fair condition assessment, the Murphy Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway type and moderate risk level. Regular inspections by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau ensure that the dam meets safety standards and is in compliance with state regulations. With its tranquil surroundings and vital role in water resource management, Murphy Dam stands as a symbol of both natural beauty and human innovation in this vibrant region of New Hampshire.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

2200

Dam Height

106

River Or Stream

CONNECTICUT RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1895

Drainage Area

170.5

Nid Storage

132000

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

106
       
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.