Lake Brownwood Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Brownwood Dam, located in Brownwood, Texas, is a vital structure that serves both recreational and water supply purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1933, this earth dam stands at a height of 120 feet and stretches 1580 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of over 1 million acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Pecan Bayou and is under the regulatory oversight of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).

With a surface area of 7300 acres and a drainage area of 1544 square miles, Lake Brownwood Dam plays a crucial role in providing water resources for the region. The dam features uncontrolled and valve outlets, with a spillway width of 479 feet to manage excess water flow. Despite its age, the dam has been deemed to be in satisfactory condition, with a moderate risk assessment rating.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Brownwood Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of engineering, environmental regulation, and water management. As a cornerstone of the local community, the dam not only provides essential water supplies but also offers a recreational haven for residents and visitors alike. Its construction by D.W. Ross and ongoing maintenance ensure the continued functionality and safety of this important infrastructure in Brown County, Texas.

Year Completed

1933

Dam Length

1580

Dam Height

120

River Or Stream

PECAN BAYOU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7300

Hydraulic Height

120

Drainage Area

1544

Nid Storage

1011829

Structural Height

120

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1, Valve - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

120
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.