Murphy James L Jr Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
Located in Wellston, Oklahoma, the Murphy James L Jr dam stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering, having been completed in 1910.
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Summary
This private earth dam, with a height of 20 feet and a length of 1300 feet, was constructed to impound water from the TR-BEAR CREEK for various purposes. With a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and a spillway width of 1 foot, the dam is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and undergoes regular inspections, with a low hazard potential rating.
Despite being over a century old, the Murphy James L Jr dam remains in relatively good condition, with a risk assessment rating of very high. Its primary purpose and dam type are classified as "Other" and "Earth," respectively, with stone core and soil foundations. The dam's location in Lincoln County, Oklahoma, highlights its significance in water resource management for the surrounding area. Additionally, the dam is under the jurisdiction of the state and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
The dam's association with the Tulsa District of the US Army Corps of Engineers underscores its importance in water management infrastructure. With a single valve outlet gate and a controlled spillway, the Murphy James L Jr dam serves as a vital component in the region's water control system. Its historical and functional significance make it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of engineering, conservation, and regulation.
Year Completed |
1910 |
Dam Length |
1300 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
200 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Deep Fork At Warwick
|
23cfs |
Cimarron River Near Ripley
|
508cfs |
North Canadian River Near Harrah
|
230cfs |
North Canadian River At Britton Rd At Okc
|
180cfs |
Cimarron River Near Guthrie
|
477cfs |
Cottonwood Creek Near Seward
|
67cfs |
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 James L Jr