Brownell Creek 11-A Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Brownell Creek 11-A, located in Otoe, Nebraska, is a flood risk reduction structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Nebraska DNR.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 30.5 feet with a structural height of 38.9 feet, providing a storage capacity of 308.6 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, this dam serves its primary purpose of flood risk reduction effectively.

The dam's location on TR-Brownell Creek in Talmage, Nebraska, showcases its importance in managing water resources in the area. It covers a drainage area of 0.94 square miles and can handle a maximum discharge of 1883 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, Brownell Creek 11-A remains a critical infrastructure for ensuring water security and flood protection in the region. With regular inspections and state regulation, this dam continues to contribute to the resilience of the local community in the face of changing climate patterns.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Brownell Creek 11-A exemplifies the collaborative efforts between local government agencies and federal entities to safeguard water resources and mitigate flood risks. Its presence underscores the significance of proactive infrastructure development in adapting to the challenges posed by climate change. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the vital role of structures like Brownell Creek 11-A is essential in promoting sustainable water management practices and resilience in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

745

Dam Height

30.5

River Or Stream

TR-BROWNELL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

30.5

Drainage Area

0.94

Nid Storage

308.6

Structural Height

38.9

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

39
       
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.