Browning Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Virgil Miles Janice Rosier Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Browning Lake Dam, located in Bigelow, Missouri, was completed in 1971 and serves primarily for flood risk reduction.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam, constructed as an earth core type with buttress foundations, stands at a height of 29 feet and has a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet. While its purpose includes debris control, fire protection, and recreational use, its proximity to TR-Little Tarkio Creek highlights its essential role in protecting the surrounding area from flooding.
With a hazard potential rated as high and a condition assessment not yet rated, the Browning Lake Dam poses significant risks that need to be managed effectively. Despite not being state-regulated, its importance in mitigating flood risks cannot be understated. The dam's location within Holt County underscores its critical role in protecting the community and maintaining the safety of the surrounding area. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Browning Lake Dam's design and purpose intriguing, especially in the context of ensuring flood protection and water management in the region.
As a privately owned structure, Browning Lake Dam's management and maintenance are crucial in preserving its functionality and safeguarding against potential hazards. The dam's close association with TR-Little Tarkio Creek and its significant storage capacity make it a key component in the local water resource infrastructure. With its construction aimed at flood risk reduction and other essential purposes, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE TARKIO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
161 |
Nid Storage |
78 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River At Rulo
|
26600cfs |
Tarkio River At Fairfax Mo
|
55cfs |
Nodaway River Near Graham
|
134cfs |
Big Nemaha River At Falls City
|
310cfs |
Nodaway River Near Burlington Jct
|
63cfs |
One Hundred And Two River At Maryville
|
6cfs |
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.
Browning Lake Dam