Browning Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Situated in the picturesque Shelby County of Missouri, Browning Lake Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in managing water resources.


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Summary

Built in 1977, this earth dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction, with additional purposes of irrigation and recreation. With a height of 18 feet and a storage capacity of 193 acre-feet, Browning Lake Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Owned privately, Browning Lake Dam is not regulated by the state and has a low hazard potential. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, the dam continues to fulfill its purpose effectively. While its spillway type and width are unspecified, the dam's strategic location on the TR to Garnett Branch river ensures efficient drainage and protection for the 800-acre drainage area it serves.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the Rock Island District of Missouri, Browning Lake Dam stands as a notable landmark that showcases the importance of sustainable water management practices. Its role in flood risk reduction, alongside irrigation and recreational benefits, highlights the multifaceted impact of dams on local ecosystems and communities. With its unlisted foundations and buttress core type, Browning Lake Dam invites further exploration and appreciation for the vital role it plays in safeguarding the region's water resources.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR TO GARNETT BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Drainage Area

800

Nid Storage

193

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.