Murray Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mullen Lake Dam Newcomb Lagoon
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Murray Lake Dam, located in Nash, North Carolina, on Turkey Creek, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1770, the dam stands at a structural height of 12 feet with a hydraulic height of 9 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. The dam spans 100 feet in length and covers a surface area of 100 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts in the city of Samarie.
Despite not being state-regulated, Murray Lake Dam poses a significant hazard potential due to its age and design. However, recent inspections have deemed its condition satisfactory as of April 2014. While there are no associated structures or locks, the dam is equipped with outlet gates for water release. In the event of an emergency, there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared, raising concerns about the safety and risk management measures in place for the dam.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Murray Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of a historic earth dam used for recreation in North Carolina. With its unique design and potential hazards, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections and emergency preparedness to ensure the safety of both the structure and surrounding community. As efforts continue to mitigate risks and improve safety measures, Murray Lake Dam remains a focal point for those interested in water resource management and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1770 |
Dam Length |
100 |
River Or Stream |
Turkey Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
100 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
13312 |
Nid Storage |
120 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Contentnea Creek Near Lucama
|
37cfs |
Tar R At Us 401 At Louisburg
|
97cfs |
Neuse River Near Clayton
|
384cfs |
Swift Creek At Hilliardston
|
858cfs |
Tar River At Nc 97 At Rocky Mount
|
240cfs |
Neuse River Near Falls
|
79cfs |
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.
Murray Lake Dam