Murphy Foundation Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Murphy Foundation Dam, located in Stamford, New York, on the Mine Kill River, serves as a crucial water resource for both recreational purposes and water supply.
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Summary
This private dam, standing at 18 feet in height and 500 feet in length, has a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet and a surface area of 24 acres. It is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.
Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, Murphy Foundation Dam plays a vital role in the local water management system. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 53 feet, allows for the safe release of excess water during periods of high flow. Although the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, there are no specific risk management measures outlined for the structure. With the last inspection conducted in September 2019, ongoing monitoring and maintenance are essential to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the dam's continued functionality.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Murphy Foundation Dam represents a key infrastructure component in the Schoharie County area. Its presence on the Mine Kill River provides opportunities for recreation and contributes to water supply needs in the region. As efforts continue to assess and address the dam's condition and safety concerns, stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed and engaged in the management of this critical water resource asset.
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
MINE KILL |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
24 |
Nid Storage |
140 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Murphy Foundation Dam