Bowman Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Koochiching Wetland Welch Lake
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Redby, Minnesota, Bowman Dam is a private earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1996.
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Summary
The dam serves as a fish and wildlife pond along the South Cormorant River, with a maximum storage capacity of 293 acre-feet and a normal storage of 44 acre-feet. With a length of 800 feet and a height of 10 feet, Bowman Dam also features a controlled spillway with a width of 60 feet to manage water discharge effectively.
Managed by the MNDNR EWR, Bowman Dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, the dam is classified as having a very high risk due to its critical role in water resource management in the area. With a focus on fish and wildlife conservation, Bowman Dam plays a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding environment and supporting the local biodiversity.
In addition to its primary purpose, Bowman Dam offers recreational opportunities for water resource and climate enthusiasts, providing a serene setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, birdwatching, and nature appreciation. While the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, its importance in the region's water management and conservation efforts is evident. As a key infrastructure for the local ecosystem, Bowman Dam stands as a testament to the symbiotic relationship between water resources and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1996 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH CORMORANT RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25 |
Drainage Area |
3.1 |
Nid Storage |
293 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mississippi River Near Bemidji
|
169cfs |
Big Fork River At Big Falls
|
169cfs |
Red Lake River Near Red Lake
|
385cfs |
Rapid River Near Baudette
|
91cfs |
Prairie River Near Taconite
|
63cfs |
Mississippi River At Grand Rapids
|
633cfs |
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.
Bowman Dam
Island Lake