Browns Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Browns Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1950 and is 76 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 | 26 ft (taller than 67% in SC) |
| Max Storage | 205 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 141 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 16 acres |
| Year Completed | 1950 (76 years old) |
| NID ID | SC00520 |
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
JACQUELYN W COURTNEY
Private
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High Hazard 34 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Browns Lake Dam?
Browns Lake Dam 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 Browns Lake Dam?
Browns Lake Dam is owned by JACQUELYN W COURTNEY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Browns Lake Dam built?
Browns Lake Dam was completed in 1950, making it 76 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 Browns Lake Dam?
Browns Lake Dam 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 Browns Lake Dam?
Browns Lake Dam has a dam height of 26 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 Browns Lake Dam last inspected?
Browns Lake Dam was last inspected on November 23, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.