Pat Brown Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bloom Circle C No.2
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Pat Brown is a privately owned dam located in Custer, South Dakota, along the tributary of Spring Creek.
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Summary
Constructed in 1998 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 28 feet high with a length of 200 feet, providing a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 280 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been rated for its condition and lacks important emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan.
Managed by the DENR and regulated by the state of South Dakota, Pat Brown serves a vital role in water resource management in the region. With its uncontrolled spillway and stone core type, the dam is designed to control the flow of water and mitigate flooding risks in the area. However, the lack of recent inspections and maintenance updates raises concerns about its long-term sustainability and ability to withstand potential climate-related challenges.
Given its strategic location and purpose, Pat Brown plays a key role in protecting the surrounding community from water-related risks. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is essential for stakeholders to prioritize the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Pat Brown to ensure their effectiveness in safeguarding against potential disasters. By addressing the current gaps in inspection and emergency preparedness, the dam can better serve as a reliable resource for water management in the face of evolving climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1998 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. SPRING CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Pat Brown