Bowman Main Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bowman Main, located in Nevada County, California, is a vital water resource infrastructure owned by a public utility.


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Summary

Built in 1926, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 167 feet and serves multiple purposes including irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. With a storage capacity of 68,500 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in managing the water resources of the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Bowman Main is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance. The dam is situated on Canyon Creek in Washington, California, and its associated structures are overseen by the State Engineer and the Department of Water Resources.

With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, Bowman Main continues to play a pivotal role in providing irrigation water to the surrounding areas. As a key component of the water infrastructure in California, this dam underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demands. Maintaining the integrity of Bowman Main is crucial for ensuring a reliable and resilient water supply for the region's agricultural, recreational, and residential needs.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

167

River Or Stream

Canyon Creek

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

810

Hydraulic Height

167

Drainage Area

29

Nid Storage

68500

Structural Height

174.5

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

175
       
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.