Bowdens Pond Dam # 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bowdens Pond Dam # 1, located in McDuffie County, Georgia, was completed in 1930 by designer Paul Bowden.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This private dam on Fort Creek stands at a height of 13 feet and stretches 1400 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 219 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, offering a surface area of 20 acres for outdoor activities in the Thompson Branch Environs.
Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Bowdens Pond Dam # 1 has been inspected periodically, with the last assessment taking place in May 2009. The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. It features uncontrolled spillways and outlets, posing minimal risk to surrounding areas. With its earth core and buttress design, this dam is a crucial part of the local landscape while providing a safe and enjoyable recreational space for the community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bowdens Pond Dam # 1 offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship. Its historic construction and ongoing maintenance serve as a reminder of the importance of responsible dam management in preserving natural ecosystems and ensuring public safety. As a low-hazard structure with a moderate risk assessment, this dam stands as a testament to the balance between human development and environmental conservation in water resource management.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
1400 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
FORT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Nid Storage |
219 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
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 # 1