Summary
Constructed in 1904, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a length of 2500 feet. With a primary purpose of providing fire protection, stock, and serving as a small fish pond, Brown also supports irrigation activities in the area. The dam has a storage capacity of 2700 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1100 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 320 acres and draining an area of 105 square miles.
Managed by the Colorado Department of Water Resources, Brown is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations. Despite being classified as having low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2016 was deemed fair. The risk assessment for Brown is considered high (2), prompting the need for continued monitoring and risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and environment.
Situated on Mustang Creek and falling under the jurisdiction of the Albuquerque District, Brown serves as an important water resource for the region. As climate change impacts water availability and usage patterns, understanding and maintaining the integrity of dams like Brown becomes increasingly critical for ensuring water security and resilience in the face of environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1904 |
Dam Length |
2500 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
MUSTANG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
320 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
105 |
Nid Storage |
2700 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Brown