Brownell Creek 16-A Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Brownell Creek 16-A is a crucial flood risk reduction structure located in Otoe, Nebraska.
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Summary
Built in 1960 by USDA NRCS, this Earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet, with a hydraulic height of 38 feet and a length of 995 feet. It has a storage capacity of 440 acre-feet, serving the primary purpose of flood risk reduction for the local community. The dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
Situated within the watershed of TR-Brownell Creek, this dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of 2016, Brownell Creek 16-A is deemed to be in good operational shape. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively, storing water during periods of high discharge and minimizing the risk of downstream flooding. The local government takes responsibility for the ownership and maintenance of this essential infrastructure.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Brownell Creek 16-A is a cornerstone of water resource management in the region. With a drainage area of 1.1 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 72 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the community against potential flood events. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Brownell Creek 16-A are essential for ensuring the resilience and sustainability of local water systems.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
995 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BROWNELL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Drainage Area |
1.1 |
Nid Storage |
440 |
Structural Height |
40 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
40 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River At Nebraska City
|
24100cfs |
Weeping Water Creek At Union
|
20cfs |
Little Nemaha River At Auburn
|
82cfs |
Platte R At Louisville Ne
|
4630cfs |
Nishnabotna River Above Hamburg
|
1190cfs |
Salt Creek At Greenwood
|
125cfs |
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.
Brownell Creek 16-A