Brownlee
Key Takeaway
Brownlee is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1859 and is 167 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 34 ft (taller than 87.2% in WI) |
| Dam Length | 400 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 255 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 73 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 30 acres |
| Drainage Area | 20 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,245 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1859 (167 years old) |
| NID ID | WI00002 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
City of Mondovi
Local Government
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Brownlee?
Brownlee is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Brownlee?
Brownlee is owned by City of Mondovi (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Brownlee built?
Brownlee was completed in 1859, making it 167 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 Brownlee?
Brownlee serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Brownlee?
Brownlee has a dam height of 34 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.
When was Brownlee last inspected?
Brownlee was last inspected on April 30, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.