Browns Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Browns Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1924 and is 102 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 48 ft (taller than 91.6% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 1,375 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 891 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 44 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,931 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1924 (102 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00763 |
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
NORWALK FIRST TAXING DISTRICT
Local Government
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High Hazard 24 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Browns Reservoir Dam?
Browns Reservoir 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 Reservoir Dam?
Browns Reservoir Dam is owned by NORWALK FIRST TAXING DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Browns Reservoir Dam built?
Browns Reservoir Dam was completed in 1924, making it 102 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 Reservoir Dam?
Browns Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Browns Reservoir Dam?
Browns Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 48 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 Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Browns Reservoir Dam was last inspected on April 25, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.