Clarence J. Brown Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Clarence J.


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Summary

Brown Dam, also known as Clarence J Brown Reservoir, is a federal-owned structure located in Clark County, Ohio, near the city of Springfield. Completed in 1973 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this earth dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction along Buck Creek. With a hydraulic height of 70 feet and a structural height of 98 feet, the dam holds a normal storage capacity of 36,900 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2,120 acres.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is equipped with one vertical lift outlet gate. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, meeting guidelines and preparedness standards. The US Army Corps of Engineers actively manages flood risks associated with the dam, regularly inspecting and maintaining its structural integrity. Managing water levels and collaborating with local emergency managers, the agency prioritizes risk reduction measures and community awareness to ensure preparedness for any potential dam-related emergencies.

In the event of severe weather events or increased water inflow, the dam may release water downstream to manage pressure and maintain its functionality. The risk management measures outlined for Clarence J. Brown Dam emphasize a proactive approach to monitoring and addressing potential risks, as well as engaging with the public and emergency responders to enhance readiness and response capabilities. As part of the US Army Corps of Engineers' ongoing efforts, additional details specific to this dam will be provided at a future time to further enhance its risk assessment and management.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

6620

River Or Stream

BUCK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2120

Hydraulic Height

70

Drainage Area

82

Nid Storage

63700

Structural Height

98

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0, Vertical Lift - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

98
       
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.