Brown's Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Brown's Lake Dam in Vicksburg, Mississippi, built in 1930 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, serves as a water supply source for the area with a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet.


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Summary

The dam, primarily made of earth and stone, stands at a height of 27 feet and has a spillway width of 99 feet. Though the risk assessment in 2020 classified it as a Dam Safety Action Classification (DSAC) 4 due to concerns of overtopping and internal erosion, the risk of failure is considered low, with minimal impact on life and critical infrastructure downstream.

To mitigate potential risks, the USACE conducts periodic inspections to monitor seepage and dam stability. However, with the dam no longer serving its original purpose, plans for decommissioning are underway in fiscal year 2023, pending funding availability. This proactive approach aims to address any safety concerns and evaluate the long-term viability of the structure, ensuring the safety of surrounding communities and infrastructure in the event of a flood or breach. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the diligent risk management measures being implemented to safeguard the area's water supply and residents.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

560

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

Durden Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

5.5

Nid Storage

100

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.