Murphy Dam
Key Takeaway
Murphy Dam is classified as low hazard in Nebraska. It was completed in 1971 and is 55 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 17 ft (taller than 17.6% in NE) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 68 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 24 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 212 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1971 (55 years old) |
| NID ID | NE00248 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Thomas F Murphy
Private
Nearby Dams
Swan Creek 35
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Low Hazard 34 ftSouth Fork Swan Creek 4-2
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Low Hazard 26 ftSwan Creek 94
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Low Hazard 31 ftZalesky Dam
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Low Hazard 25 ftJarchow Dam
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Low Hazard 13 ftSchwisow Dam
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Low Hazard 21 ftSwan Creek 68
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Significant Hazard 40 ftHummel Erosion Control Dam
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Low Hazard 17 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Murphy Dam?
Murphy Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Murphy Dam?
Murphy Dam is owned by Thomas F Murphy (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Murphy Dam built?
Murphy Dam was completed in 1971, making it 55 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 Murphy Dam?
Murphy 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 Murphy Dam?
Murphy Dam has a dam height of 17 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 Murphy Dam last inspected?
Murphy Dam was last inspected on June 3, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.