Brown's Valley Dam

BOIS DE SIOUX/MINNESOTA RIVER· Traverse, Minnesota· Built 1941· Earth·

Key Takeaway

Brown's Valley Dam is classified as significant hazard in Minnesota. It was completed in 1941 and is 85 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length3,700 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage0 acre-ft
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
Surface Area0 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge6,000 cfs
Year Completed1941 (85 years old)
NID IDMN00575

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: August 22, 2018
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - St. Paul District

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Brown's Valley Dam?

Brown's Valley Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Brown's Valley Dam?

Brown's Valley Dam is owned by USACE - St. Paul District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Brown's Valley Dam built?

Brown's Valley Dam was completed in 1941, making it 85 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 Brown's Valley Dam?

Brown's Valley Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Other, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Brown's Valley Dam last inspected?

Brown's Valley Dam was last inspected on August 22, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.