Bowman Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bowman Lake is a man-made reservoir located in Nevada and Placer counties in California.


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Summary

It was constructed in 1929 as part of the Bowman Dam Project, which aimed to provide hydroelectric power to the surrounding areas. The lake is fed by the Bear River and other smaller streams, and its hydrology is closely tied to the region's snowpack, which is a crucial source of water for the reservoir. The lake is also used for agricultural irrigation and recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and camping. The surrounding area is known for its scenic beauty and opportunities for outdoor recreation, and the lake is a popular destination for visitors seeking to escape the city and enjoy the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Reservoir Details

Storage 24hr Change 0.09%
Percent of Normal 184%
Minimum 15,834.0 acre-ft
2021-10-02
Maximum 68,404.0 acre-ft
2022-06-14
Average 36,374 acre-ft
Nid_Height 175
Hydraulic_Height 167
Primary_Dam_Type Rockfill
Drainage_Area 29
Year_Completed 1926
Dam_Height 167
Structural_Height 174.5
Foundations Rock
Surface_Area 810
Hazard_Potential High
Nid_Storage 68500
River_Or_Stream Canyon Creek
Dam_Length 700
       
Seasonal Comparison
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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.