Morphy Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Morphy Lake Dam, also known as Murphy Lake Dam, is a crucial water resource structure located in Mora, New Mexico.
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Summary
Built in 1940 by designer H. E. BEISMAN, this earth dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, but also supports fish and wildlife pond and recreation activities. With a height of 26.5 feet and a length of 436 feet, the dam has a reservoir storage capacity of 507 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 28 acres.
Situated on the RIO MORPHY-TR stream, Morphy Lake Dam is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico. Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, the dam has a moderate risk rating. The spillway type is uncontrolled, and the outlet gates consist of a slide (sluice gate). The dam has undergone regular state inspections, with the last inspection conducted in June 2018. Due to its importance in supporting irrigation and recreational activities, efforts may be needed to ensure the safety and maintenance of Morphy Lake Dam for the community of LEDOUX and beyond.
Overall, Morphy Lake Dam stands as a vital water resource infrastructure in New Mexico, providing essential support for irrigation, fish and wildlife habitat, and recreational activities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, ensuring the safety and proper maintenance of this dam will be crucial for the continued water security and environmental sustainability of the region. Collaboration between local government, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders will be essential in managing the risk associated with this high-hazard dam and maintaining its functionality for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
436 |
Dam Height |
26.5 |
River Or Stream |
RIO MORPHY-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
28 |
Drainage Area |
0.11 |
Nid Storage |
507 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mora River At La Cueva
|
13cfs |
Coyote Creek Near Golondrinas
|
6cfs |
Mora River Near Golondrinas
|
18cfs |
Rio Mora Near Terrero
|
11cfs |
Rio Pueblo Nr Penasco
|
27cfs |
Gallinas Creek Near Montezuma
|
10cfs |
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.
Morphy Lake Dam
Headwaters To Alamitos Diversion