Murchison Drive Dam
Key Takeaway
Murchison Drive Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1948 and is 78 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 12 ft (taller than 7.4% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 6 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 71 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1948 (78 years old) |
| NID ID | TX07021 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
CITY OF EL PASO
Local Government
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High Hazard 23 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Murchison Drive Dam?
Murchison Drive Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Murchison Drive Dam?
Murchison Drive Dam is owned by CITY OF EL PASO (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Murchison Drive Dam built?
Murchison Drive Dam was completed in 1948, making it 78 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Murchison Drive Dam?
Murchison Drive Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Murchison Drive Dam?
Murchison Drive Dam has a dam height of 12 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Murchison Drive Dam last inspected?
Murchison Drive Dam was last inspected on February 12, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.