Browning Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: April 19, 2026

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Browning Lake, located in Shelby County, Missouri, is a private recreational lake built in 1960 with a primary purpose of providing leisure activities for its visitors.


Summary

The earth dam structure, standing at a height of 15 feet, creates a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 36 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 12 acres and is fed by the TR Gornet Branch.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Browning Lake offers a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and bird-watching. Although the dam does not have a spillway, the lake is well-maintained for recreational use, with regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures in place. This hidden gem in Bethel, Missouri, is a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature while appreciating the importance of sustainable water resource management.

15-Day Long Term Forecast


Year Completed

1960

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR GORNET BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

100

Nid Storage

96

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail

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.
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