Brown Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: May 6, 2026

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Brown Reservoir Dam, also known as the John Brown Estate Reservoir, is a private-owned structure located in Union County, New Mexico.


Summary

Built in 1947 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and stretches 1420 feet in length, serving primarily for irrigation purposes. With a storage capacity of 288 acre-feet, the dam is situated on the Dry Cimarron River-TR, providing essential water resources for agricultural activities in the area.

Despite its poor condition assessment in 2013, the hazard potential of Brown Reservoir Dam is considered low, with a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a spillway width of 30 feet, and it features slide (sluice gate) outlet gates. The structure has undergone periodic state inspections, with the Office of the State Engineer in charge of regulation and enforcement. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years, its significance in providing water for irrigation, fire protection, and stock needs highlights its importance in managing water resources in the region.

Overall, Brown Reservoir Dam represents a crucial infrastructure for water management in New Mexico, ensuring reliable water supply for agricultural activities in Union County. While facing challenges in terms of its condition and maintenance, the dam continues to play a vital role in meeting the water needs of the local community. As climate change impacts water availability, the proper monitoring and upkeep of structures like Brown Reservoir Dam are essential to safeguarding water resources for future generations and adapting to the changing climate conditions.

15-Day Long Term Forecast


Year Completed

1947

Dam Length

1420

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

DRY CIMARRON RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

29

Drainage Area

54

Nid Storage

288

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

38
       
Seasonal Comparison

5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail

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.
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