Brown Dam 589 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gunst Dam Darold Eaton Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Brown Dam 589, located in Buffalo County, Nebraska, is a vital structure for flood risk reduction along the TR-South Loup River.
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Summary
Completed in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 27.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 400.3 acre-feet, serving as a crucial line of defense against potential flooding events in the region. With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Brown Dam 589 plays a key role in protecting the surrounding area from the impacts of extreme weather events.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Brown Dam 589 is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness. Situated within Congressional District 03, Nebraska, this dam is overseen by Representative Adrian Smith and the Kansas City District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. With a drainage area of 3.23 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 75 cubic feet per second, Brown Dam 589 is a crucial infrastructure for water resource management in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the engineering marvel that is Brown Dam 589, with its stone core and soil foundation providing stability against the forces of nature. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, this dam serves as a testament to human ingenuity in safeguarding communities against the unpredictable impacts of climate change. As a cornerstone of water management in Buffalo County, Nebraska, Brown Dam 589 stands as a symbol of resilience and proactive planning in the face of environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
425 |
Dam Height |
27.5 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SOUTH LOUP RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
27.5 |
Drainage Area |
3.23 |
Nid Storage |
400.3 |
Structural Height |
27.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Loup R At St. Michael
|
200cfs |
Platte River Near Kearney
|
1570cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1370cfs |
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
3cfs |
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
7cfs |
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 Dam 589