Browns Canyon 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fanning Dam Stiver South Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Browns Canyon 1 is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Scotts Bluff, Nebraska.
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Summary
Constructed in 1953 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at an impressive height of 62 feet and has a hydraulic height of 56 feet. With a storage capacity of 205 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.1 square miles, Browns Canyon 1 plays a crucial role in managing water flow and reducing the risk of flooding in the region.
Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, Browns Canyon 1 is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, and it serves as a critical infrastructure for protecting the surrounding area from the impacts of extreme weather events. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1128 cubic feet per second, Browns Canyon 1 is a key component of the local water resource management system.
As a local government-owned structure, Browns Canyon 1 serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between government agencies and the community to safeguard against the threats of climate change and water-related disasters. With its stone core and soil foundation, this dam stands as a resilient barrier against flooding, underscoring the importance of proactive infrastructure investments in building climate resilience. Despite its challenges, Browns Canyon 1 remains a crucial asset in the region's water resource management and climate adaptation efforts.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
240 |
Dam Height |
62 |
River Or Stream |
BROWNS CANYON DRAIN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
56 |
Drainage Area |
2.1 |
Nid Storage |
205 |
Structural Height |
62 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
62 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Zeigler Park - Mitchell
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Scenic Knolls City Golf Course and Campground
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Riverside Park - Terrytown
|
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Robidoux RV Park
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Browns Canyon 1