Summary
Built in 1994, this earth dam stands at 22 feet high and serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a storage capacity of 3,279 acre-feet and a surface area of 188 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, Murphy is equipped with a spillway width of 66 feet to manage potential peak discharges of up to 1,783 cubic feet per second, ensuring the safety of surrounding areas in case of emergencies.
Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Murphy undergoes regular inspections with an inspection frequency of 10 years to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. Although its condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Rated," the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in 1995, demonstrating the commitment to preparedness and risk management. With its location in a picturesque natural setting and its importance for local recreation, Murphy serves as a crucial water resource for the community while maintaining a low-risk profile for potential hazards.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore Murphy's role in the Hemlock Creek watershed, its significance as a recreational structure within the Detroit District of Wisconsin becomes evident. With its strategic location and safe operations, Murphy stands as a testament to responsible dam management and the harmonious coexistence of human activities with natural ecosystems. As advocates for sustainable water resource management, understanding the complexities and importance of structures like Murphy is crucial in preserving the delicate balance between human needs and environmental conservation in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
Hemlock Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
188 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
19.6 |
Nid Storage |
3279 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Chippewa River Near Bruce
|
668cfs |
Flambeau River Near Bruce
|
616cfs |
Chippewa River At Bishops Bridge Near Winter
|
251cfs |
Jump River At Sheldon
|
155cfs |
Red Cedar River Near Colfax
|
593cfs |
Hay River At Wheeler
|
235cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Murphy Flowage Park
|
||
Audie Lake County Park
|
||
Waldo Carlson Park
|
||
Doolittle Park Campground
|
||
Doolittle Park
|
||
Paiute
|
Murphy
Murphy Flowage -- Ramp
Blue Hills Felsenmeer State Natural Area
Bandli County Park
Indian Mound Park