Robert W Murphey Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Robert W Murphey Dam, located in Nacogdoches, Texas, serves as a vital irrigation structure along the TR-Banita Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1964, this private-owned Earth dam stands at 20 feet high and stretches 425 feet long, with a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet. Despite its modest size, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water for irrigation purposes, as well as fire protection, stock, and small fish pond maintenance in the area.
Although primarily used for irrigation, the Robert W Murphey Dam does not have a spillway and is not regulated by the state, making it a unique structure in terms of its design and function. With a high hazard potential rating and a condition assessment that is not rated, there is a need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and effectiveness. The risk assessment for this dam is classified as high, emphasizing the importance of implementing proper risk management measures in the future.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts delve into the details of the Robert W Murphey Dam, its significance as a key irrigation structure in Nacogdoches, Texas becomes apparent. With a rich history dating back to the 1960s, this Earth dam continues to play a vital role in the local agricultural community, showcasing the importance of water management and infrastructure for sustainable development. Despite its challenges and high-risk assessment, the dam stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of human efforts to harness and protect valuable water resources.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
425 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BANITA CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
0.09 |
Nid Storage |
62 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bayou Lanana At Nacogdoches
|
9cfs |
E Fk Angelina Rv Nr Cushing
|
40cfs |
Angelina Rv Nr Alto
|
328cfs |
Attoyac Bayou Nr Chireno
|
1200cfs |
Mud Ck Nr Jacksonville
|
123cfs |
Ayish Bayou Nr San Augustine
|
196cfs |
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.
Robert W Murphey Dam