Bowman Lake 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bowman Lake 1 is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Deer Lodge, Montana, along the Tr- Racetrack Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1958 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a hydraulic height of 19 feet. With a storage capacity of 71 acre-feet, this dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation in the area. Despite its age, Bowman Lake 1 has a low hazard potential and its condition assessment is currently not available.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Bowman Lake 1 plays a crucial role in water resource management in Powell County. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 75 cubic feet per second and a normal storage level of 42 acre-feet. While the dam does not have a spillway and its surface area and drainage area are not specified, it continues to provide essential water supply for agricultural activities in the region. The dam is also under the regulation of the Forest Service and undergoes inspections periodically to ensure its safety and functionality.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bowman Lake 1 offers a fascinating glimpse into the infrastructure that sustains agricultural practices in rural Montana. With its simple yet effective design, this dam is a testament to the importance of irrigation in arid regions. As efforts to manage water resources become increasingly critical in the face of climate change, understanding the role of structures like Bowman Lake 1 is key to ensuring sustainable water use for future generations.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

Tr- Racetrack Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

71

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.