Browns Reservoir Report
Nearby: Oak Hill Golf Course Ridgetop
Last Updated: January 11, 2026
Browns is a private earth dam located in Forest Grove, Tennessee, on the South Fork Sycamore Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1935, this dam stands at a hydraulic height of 12.9 feet and a structural height of 16.5 feet, with a length of 320 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 7 acres, serving the purpose of water storage.
Despite its age, Browns has a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The dam is not currently regulated or inspected by the state, with its last inspection taking place in May 2020. While the dam does not have an emergency action plan in place, the risk management measures and emergency contacts for the structure are yet to be updated.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Browns an intriguing case study due to its historical significance and the potential risks associated with its high hazard potential. The lack of state regulation and inspection raises questions about the safety and resilience of the dam, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and emergency preparedness for aging infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
320 |
River Or Stream |
SO FORK SYCAMORE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
12.9 |
Drainage Area |
1.65 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Structural Height |
16.5 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Browns
Marrowbone Lake Road 6398, Nashville-Davidson