Bown Dam
Key Takeaway
Bown Dam is classified as low hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1957 and is 69 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 31 ft (taller than 88.8% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 1,084 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 290 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 113 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 19 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,620 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1957 (69 years old) |
| NID ID | SD01590 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Thomas & Diane Bown
Private
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Low Hazard 19 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bown Dam?
Bown Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Bown Dam?
Bown Dam is owned by Thomas & Diane Bown (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bown Dam built?
Bown Dam was completed in 1957, making it 69 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Bown Dam?
Bown Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Fish And Wildlife Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Bown Dam?
Bown Dam has a dam height of 31 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.