Murchison Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Murchison Lake Dam in Anderson, Texas, stands as a testament to engineering and nature's beauty.


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Summary

Completed in 1965, this private-owned Earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and stretches 550 feet long. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a serene spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the tranquil waters of Murchison Lake. Despite its age, the dam has a high risk potential (2) due to factors that need further assessment and management.

Located on TR-Coon Creek and nestled in the Fort Worth District, Murchison Lake Dam boasts a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 42 acre-feet. The dam's surroundings span an area of 11 acres, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and wildlife observation. While the dam lacks a spillway, it is equipped with one outlet gate for managing water levels. It is noteworthy that the dam has not been inspected since October 1977 and is considered to have a high-risk potential, emphasizing the importance of regular evaluations and maintenance protocols.

For water enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat in East Texas, Murchison Lake Dam offers a serene escape in the heart of nature. Boasting a rich history and a unique design, this Earth dam provides a recreational oasis for visitors to enjoy the beauty of Murchison Lake. However, the dam's high risk potential underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and management to ensure its safety and longevity in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TR-COON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

10

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.