Bowstring Dam, located in Itasca County, Minnesota, is a Federal-owned structure that regulates the flow of the Bowstring River. Completed in 1989, this Earth-type dam stands at 8 feet tall and spans 550 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 192 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR EWR).

With a primary purpose classified as 'Other', Bowstring Dam serves a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. It is equipped with spillway controls and has a maximum discharge rate of 58 cubic feet per second. The dam's condition is currently 'Not Rated', with the last inspection conducted in 2007. While it meets state permitting and inspection requirements, there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, highlighting a potential area for improvement in emergency preparedness.

As an important infrastructure for water management in the area, Bowstring Dam provides a glimpse into the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. Its presence along the Bowstring River underscores the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of this vital structure in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demands.