Browns Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Limestone, Texas, Browns Lake Dam is a privately owned structure that serves various purposes such as fire protection, stock, and small fish pond, as well as recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1951, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a length of 920 feet, providing a storage capacity of 560 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Chambers Creek and is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).

With a fair condition assessment as of July 2016, Browns Lake Dam has undergone modifications in 1983 and 2012 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 123 feet and is equipped with two uncontrolled and one valve outlet gates. Although the hazard potential is not available, the dam is classified as having a moderate risk level. It is inspected and regulated by the state, ensuring that it meets safety standards for the surrounding area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Browns Lake Dam offers a glimpse into the intricate infrastructure designed to manage water resources while providing recreational opportunities. Its history, design specifications, and risk assessment highlight the importance of maintaining and regulating such structures to ensure the safety and sustainability of water systems in Texas. As a pivotal component of the local ecosystem, Browns Lake Dam stands as a testament to the balance between human development and environmental conservation in the region.

Years Modified

1983 - Hydraulic, 2012 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

920

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

CHAMBERS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

9

Nid Storage

560

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2, Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.