Brown Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lawrence Dam Littell Dam
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Brown Dam, located in Patrick, Virginia, is a state-regulated structure under the jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 50 feet and has a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. With a length of 270 feet and a surface area of 1.8 acres, Brown Dam plays a key role in water resource management in the region.
Although the hazard potential of Brown Dam is currently listed as undetermined and its condition assessment is not rated, the structure undergoes regular inspections with a frequency of once a year. The emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures for the dam are yet to be determined. The dam's primary purpose and associated structures remain unspecified, but its importance in water storage and management cannot be overlooked, especially in the context of climate change and fluctuating water availability.
As a water resource and climate enthusiast, the details of Brown Dam's specifications and regulatory oversight offer a glimpse into the complexities of managing water infrastructure in Virginia. With its strategic location and role in water storage, this dam serves as a critical piece of the state's water management puzzle, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and assessment to ensure its safety and efficacy in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Dam Length |
270 |
Dam Height |
50 |
Surface Area |
1.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
50 |
Nid Storage |
40 |
Structural Height |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Mayo River Near Nettleridge
|
48cfs |
Mayo River Near Price
|
132cfs |
North Mayo River Near Spencer
|
61cfs |
Dan River Near Francisco
|
80cfs |
Smith River At Martinsville
|
145cfs |
Smith River At Bassett
|
98cfs |
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.
Brown Dam