Murphey Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Murphey Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 27 ft (taller than 49% in MO) |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 144 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 80 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 10 acres |
| Drainage Area | 225 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1963 (63 years old) |
| NID ID | MO30173 |
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
JAMES MURPHY
Private
Nearby Dams
Apex Lake Dam
Maries, MO
Low Hazard 30 ftBowman Lake Dam
Maries, MO
High Hazard 23 ftDanube Corporation Upper Dam
Maries, MO
Low Hazard 25 ftVogt Dam
Maries, MO
Low Hazard 30 ftDanube Corporation Lower Dam
Maries, MO
High Hazard 32 ftMiller Lake Dam
Maries, MO
Low Hazard 25 ftWilson Lake Dam
Maries, MO
Low Hazard 25 ftNorbert Sandbothe Pond
Maries, MO
Low Hazard 33 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Murphey Lake Dam?
Murphey Lake 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 Murphey Lake Dam?
Murphey Lake Dam is owned by JAMES MURPHY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Murphey Lake Dam built?
Murphey Lake Dam was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Murphey Lake Dam?
Murphey Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Murphey Lake Dam?
Murphey Lake Dam has a dam height of 27 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.