Brown Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Brown Dam, located in Barnes County, North Dakota, stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of the Civilian Conservation Corps, with its masonry structure completed in 1936.
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Summary
The dam, situated on the Sheyenne River, serves a primary purpose of recreation, offering tranquil waters for visitors to enjoy. With a height of 10.5 feet and a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet, Brown Dam provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.
Maintained by the North Dakota State Water Commission, Brown Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam underwent a structural modification in 1969 to enhance its resilience. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, measures are in place to manage any potential risks associated with the dam. Although the condition assessment is currently not rated, regular inspections are conducted to monitor the dam's performance and address any maintenance needs.
Brown Dam, with its picturesque setting and historical significance, offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and water resource enthusiasts alike. As one of the many structures built during the Great Depression era, this masonry dam continues to stand as a symbol of human ingenuity and dedication to preserving and utilizing water resources for the benefit of the community. Whether for recreational activities or simply enjoying the beauty of the Sheyenne River, Brown Dam remains a vital part of North Dakota's landscape and history.
Years Modified |
1969 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Height |
10.5 |
River Or Stream |
SHEYENNE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Nid Storage |
180 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Maple River Nr Enderlin
|
25cfs |
Sheyenne River Below Baldhill Dam
|
169cfs |
Sheyenne River At Lisbon
|
222cfs |
James River At Lamoure
|
217cfs |
Bear Creek Nr Oakes
|
5cfs |
James River At Jamestown
|
205cfs |
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.
Brown Dam