Brown Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Adam Dam Chappel Studio Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Brown Dam, located in Fairfield, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a length of 442 feet, providing storage capacity of 152 acre-feet with a surface area of 9.6 acres. The dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state authorities, ensuring compliance with safety standards.
The dam, situated on TR-Crow Creek, has a low hazard potential and is classified as having a moderate risk level. While not currently rated, the condition of Brown Dam is regularly monitored, and emergency action plans are in place to address any potential risks. With its uncontrolled spillway type and soil foundation, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water for fire protection and supporting local wildlife habitats. Despite its modest size, Brown Dam serves as a vital resource for the community and contributes to the overall water management efforts in the region.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Brown Dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, dams like Brown Dam play a crucial role in ensuring water security for both human and ecological needs. Through ongoing monitoring and risk assessment, Brown Dam remains a key asset in the sustainable management of water resources in the Jefferson County area, highlighting the importance of proactive stewardship in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
442 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CROW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.6 |
Drainage Area |
0.19 |
Nid Storage |
152 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cedar Creek Near Oakland Mills
|
10cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
Big Creek Near Mt. Pleasant
|
0cfs |
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
North Skunk River Near Sigourney
|
97cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
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.
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