Brownell Creek 1-4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Brownell Creek 1-4 is a locally-owned dam system located in Otoe, Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
Completed in 1959, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet with a hydraulic height of 26 feet, providing flood risk reduction and other purposes for the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 33 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.1 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in managing the flow of Brownell Creek during periods of high discharge.
The structure spans 495 feet in length and has a surface area of 2 acres, making it a vital component in the local water resource management system. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of May 2016, regular inspections every 5 years ensure its continued functionality and safety. With its significant impact on the surrounding environment and water flow, Brownell Creek 1-4 serves as a prime example of effective dam infrastructure designed to protect communities and enhance water resource management in the region.
Managed by local government authorities and funded by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Brownell Creek 1-4 exemplifies the collaborative efforts involved in maintaining essential water infrastructure. With its strategic location in Talmage, Nebraska, this dam system under the jurisdiction of the Nebraska DNR plays a crucial role in regulating water flow from Brownell Creek to mitigate flood risks and ensure sustainable water resource management practices. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, structures like Brownell Creek 1-4 highlight the importance of proactive planning and maintenance to safeguard communities and ecosystems in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
495 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BROWNELL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
0.1 |
Nid Storage |
33 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Weeping Water Creek At Union
|
20cfs |
Missouri River At Nebraska City
|
24100cfs |
Platte R At Louisville Ne
|
4630cfs |
Little Nemaha River At Auburn
|
82cfs |
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 1-4