Brown's Valley Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lewandowski Dam Piotter Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Brown's Valley Dam, located in Minnesota on the Bois de Sioux/Minnesota River, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
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Summary
Built in 1941, this Earth dam serves primarily for Flood Risk Reduction but also supports Fish and Wildlife Pond, Recreation, and Water Supply purposes. The dam has a structural height of 14 feet and a hydraulic height of 8 feet, with a length of 3700 feet and a volume of 93,000 cubic yards.
With a significant hazard potential, the dam is monitored and managed by USACE to address all types of flood risks associated with it. The agency works towards maintaining the dam's structural integrity, managing water levels, and preparing emergency action plans to respond to potential dam-related emergencies. Regular maintenance and inspections are conducted to ensure the dam's functionality and readiness. Despite its risk rating of moderate, USACE continues to prioritize risk management measures and engage with local emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and preparedness for any potential emergencies.
Year Completed |
1941 |
Dam Length |
3700 |
River Or Stream |
BOIS DE SIOUX/MINNESOTA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
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's Valley Dam