Matthew Brown is a privately owned earth dam located in Union, Iowa, along a tributary to the Thompson River.
Wind
Humidity
Constructed in 2018 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves multiple purposes including grade stabilization, recreation, and water supply. With a height of 30 feet and a length of 325 feet, Matthew Brown has a storage capacity of 28 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2.2 acres, benefiting from a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Matthew Brown features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 24 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 177 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is not rated, this dam is designed to withstand various environmental challenges while supporting the local ecosystem and providing recreational opportunities for the community. As a vital structure in the region, Matthew Brown plays a crucial role in managing water resources and adapting to climate changes in the area.
Year Completed |
2018 |
Dam Length |
325 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
Trib to Thompson River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.09 |
Nid Storage |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Thompson River At Davis City
|
22cfs |
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
North River Near Norwalk
|
48cfs |
Middle River Near Indianola
|
48cfs |
South River Near Ackworth
|
18cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |