Bowell Dam, located in Dickinson County, Kansas, was completed in 1970 and serves primarily for irrigation purposes along Chapman Creek. With a height of 19 feet and a length of 750 feet, this earth dam holds a storage capacity of 230 acre-feet, making it a significant water resource in the area. The dam also provides debris control and recreational opportunities, adding to its overall value in water management and conservation efforts.

Managed by a private entity, Bowell Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam has a spillway width of 60 feet and a significant hazard potential, requiring a moderate risk assessment. Despite being uncontrolled, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and storage, contributing to the overall water resource infrastructure in the region.

With its location in a scenic area and its multiple purposes, including irrigation and recreation, Bowell Dam stands as a key structure in water management in Dickinson County. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of dams like Bowell in ensuring water security and sustainable usage becomes even more pronounced. Through regular inspections, risk assessments, and compliance with state regulations, Bowell Dam remains a vital component in the water resource management strategy of the region.