Bowden Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bowden Dam, located in N.


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Summary

W. Columbiana, Alabama, is a private dam primarily used for recreation on TR. Wolf Creek. Completed in 1965, this Earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 40 feet with a hydraulic height of 36 feet and a length of 200 feet. It has a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 750 cubic feet per second. While it has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, the dam has not been inspected recently.

Despite its low hazard potential, Bowden Dam serves as an important recreational resource for the community, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. The dam's location in Shelby County, Alabama, within the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, adds to its appeal as a picturesque spot for nature enthusiasts and water resource aficionados to explore. While the dam may not have significant regulatory oversight or enforcement, its role in providing recreational opportunities and supporting the local ecosystem cannot be understated.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and ecosystems, Bowden Dam stands as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices and the need to prioritize the conservation of our natural resources. With its serene surroundings and potential for outdoor recreation, the dam serves as a symbol of the delicate balance between human activity and environmental preservation in the face of a changing climate. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate work to protect and sustain these vital ecosystems, Bowden Dam offers a glimpse into the interconnectedness of water, climate, and recreation in shaping our environment.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

200

River Or Stream

TR.WOLF CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

36

Nid Storage

144

Structural Height

40

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

40
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.