Bowdish Lower Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bowdish Lower is a privately-owned dam located in Glocester, Rhode Island, along the Mary Brown Brook.


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Summary

The dam is regulated by the state and undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment in October 2017 revealing poor conditions and a high hazard potential. Despite its critical state, the dam lacks specific information on its structural attributes such as height, volume, and purpose, raising concerns about its ability to withstand potential environmental stressors like extreme weather events.

With a history of inadequate maintenance and a lack of detailed data on its specifications, Bowdish Lower presents a significant concern for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's poor condition and high hazard potential underscore the urgent need for comprehensive risk assessments, management measures, and emergency action plans to mitigate potential threats to the surrounding community and environment. Additionally, the dam's uncertain structural integrity and the absence of clear regulatory oversight highlight the pressing need for proactive measures to address its vulnerabilities and ensure the safety of the area.

Given the limited information available on Bowdish Lower's design, construction, and purpose, stakeholders and authorities must prioritize a thorough evaluation of the dam's current state and develop targeted strategies for its rehabilitation or removal. As climate change continues to exacerbate the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, the resilience of critical infrastructure like Bowdish Lower becomes increasingly crucial in safeguarding water resources and communities. By addressing the dam's deficiencies and implementing robust risk management measures, stakeholders can better prepare for future challenges and protect the ecological and public health interests at stake.

River Or Stream

MARY BROWN BROOK

Hazard Potential

High
       
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.