Brownlee Reservoir Report
Nearby: Helwig Rock Falls
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Brownlee, also known as Mirror Lake, is a recreational dam located in Wisconsin, specifically in Buffalo County near the city of Mondovi.
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Summary
Built in 1859, this earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and has a hydraulic height of 24 feet, providing a storage capacity of 255 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, with a surface area of 30 acres and a drainage area of 20 square miles.
Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR), Brownlee is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition, with a moderate risk rating of 3. The dam has a controlled spillway type and a maximum discharge capacity of 4,245 cubic feet per second, serving as a vital component for water resource management in the region.
With its historical significance and importance for recreational activities, Brownlee Dam on Brownlee and Peeso Creek continues to be a focal point for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates alike. Its location, design, and regulatory oversight make it a valuable asset in the region's water infrastructure, highlighting the balance between human recreation and environmental stewardship in managing our water resources.
Years Modified |
1974 - Other |
Year Completed |
1859 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
BROWNLEE & PEESO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
20 |
Nid Storage |
255 |
Structural Height |
34 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
34 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Chippewa River At Durand
|
4160cfs |
Trempealeau River At Arcadia
|
400cfs |
Zumbro River At Kellogg
|
1550cfs |
Red Cedar River At Menomonie
|
942cfs |
Chippewa River At Chippewa Falls
|
1490cfs |
Trempealeau River At Dodge
|
953cfs |
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.
Brownlee