Bowles #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bowles #1 is a private earth dam located in Jefferson, Colorado, along the South Platte River-OS.


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Summary

Completed in 1973, this irrigation dam stands at 20 feet high with a length of 6000 feet, providing a storage capacity of 3115 acre-feet for irrigation and recreational purposes. The dam, with a spillway width of 35 feet, has a significant hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in March 2020.

Managed by the Colorado Division of Water Resources, Bowles #1 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state agency to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with safety standards. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose of irrigation efficiently. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan are crucial aspects to monitor and update for the safety of downstream communities and the environment.

Bowles #1 stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in the face of increasing challenges. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates, understanding the intricate details of dams like Bowles #1 is crucial for safeguarding water resources, protecting communities, and mitigating the impacts of climate change on our infrastructure. The ongoing monitoring and maintenance of such structures are essential for ensuring the sustainability and resilience of our water systems in the long run.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

6000

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

SOUTH PLATTE RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

160

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

3115

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

25
       
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.