Brune Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Brune Dam, located in Clinton, Kansas, along Washington Creek, is a privately owned Earth dam primarily used for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

Constructed by the Soil Conservation Service of USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 16 feet with a length of 800 feet and a storage capacity of 73 acre-feet. Although it has a low hazard potential and is not currently regulated or inspected by state authorities, its importance for water resource management in the area cannot be understated.

The dam's design, with a Buttress core type and unlisted/unknown foundations, showcases the innovative approach taken by the Natural Resources Conservation Service in ensuring the safety and functionality of the structure. With a maximum discharge capacity of 350 cubic feet per second and a surface area of 6 acres, Brune Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. While its condition assessment is not rated, the dam's emergency action plan readiness and risk management measures suggest a commitment to ensuring the safety of surrounding communities in the event of a potential breach or emergency.

For enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate resilience, Brune Dam serves as a fascinating case study of how private entities can contribute to sustainable water infrastructure. As the debate around dam safety and regulation continues, the unique features and purpose of Brune Dam highlight the diverse ways in which dams can support local communities and ecosystems. With its strategic location and design, this Earth dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of various agencies in safeguarding water resources and enhancing resilience to climate-related challenges in the area.

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

WASHINGTON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Drainage Area

0.21

Nid Storage

73

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.