Bowdens Pond Dam # 3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bowdens Pond Dam # 3 is a privately owned earth dam located on Fort Creek in McDuffie, Georgia.
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Summary
Constructed in 1930 by designer Paul Bowden, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes. Standing at a height of 14 feet and with a length of 2200 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 490 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 155 acre-feet.
The dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment. Although the last inspection was conducted in 2009, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years, the dam remains in moderate risk (level 3). The spillway type is uncontrolled, with uncontrolled outlet gates. The dam has not been modified in recent years and does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Bowdens Pond Dam # 3 can appreciate its historical significance and recreational impact on the local community. With its unique design features and moderate risk classification, this dam presents an opportunity for further research and monitoring to ensure its safety and sustainability in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
2200 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
FORT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
62 |
Nid Storage |
490 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spirit Creek At Us 1
|
11cfs |
Butler Creek Below 7th Avenue
|
8cfs |
Augusta Canal Nr Augusta (Upper)
|
2080cfs |
Williamson Swamp Creek At Davisboro
|
83cfs |
Savannah River At Augusta
|
6790cfs |
Little River Near Washington
|
85cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Bowdens Pond Dam # 3