Browns Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Browns Reservoir Dam, located in Norwalk Ct, Westchester, New York, is a crucial water supply infrastructure managed by the local government.


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Summary

Completed in 1924, this earth-type dam stands at 48 feet high and spans 1375 feet, with a storage capacity of 1067 acre-feet and a surface area of 44 acres. The dam controls the flow of the West Branch Silver Mine River and has a spillway width of 175 feet, ensuring effective water management in the region.

With a high hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, Browns Reservoir Dam is subject to regular inspections by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. The dam's emergency action plan is periodically updated to meet guidelines, ensuring preparedness for any potential risks. The risk assessment for this dam is classified as very high, indicating the importance of implementing effective risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding communities and environment from any potential disasters.

Overall, Browns Reservoir Dam plays a vital role in water supply for the region, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and risk management practices to ensure the safety and functionality of this critical infrastructure in the face of climate change and water resource challenges.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

1375

Dam Height

48

River Or Stream

W BRANCH SILVER MINE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

44

Drainage Area

7.56

Nid Storage

1067

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

48
       
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.