Bowen Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bowen Mill Pond Dam, also known as Bowen Lake Dam, is a private dam located in Bulloch, Georgia, specifically in the city of Overbrook.


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Summary

Built in 1878, this Earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and stretches for 1200 feet, serving primarily for recreational purposes. Situated on Scott Creek, the dam offers a tranquil surface area of 76 acres and a storage capacity of 549 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 266 acre-feet.

While the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently not rated for condition assessment, it has undergone state inspections and is maintained for safety. Although it does not fall under state regulation, the dam's structural integrity and risk management measures are actively monitored. Despite its historical significance and moderate risk assessment, there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared for the dam, highlighting the importance of continued vigilance and preparedness in the face of potential climate-related challenges.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Bowen Mill Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned recreational dam with a long-standing presence in Georgia's landscape. Its unique design and purpose, coupled with its historical roots and moderate risk assessment, underscore the delicate balance between water management, safety considerations, and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate patterns and potential hazards.

Year Completed

1878

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

SCOTT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

76

Nid Storage

549

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.