Bowman Haley Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bowman Haley Dam, also known as Bowman-Haley Lake, is a Federal-owned structure located in Bowman, North Dakota.


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Summary

Built in 1970 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this earth-type dam stands at a hydraulic height of 74 feet and a structural height of 79 feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, recreation, and water supply, with a maximum storage capacity of 171,838 acre-feet and a normal storage of 19,780 acre-feet.

The dam, situated on the North Fork Grand River, covers a surface area of 1,750 acres and has a drainage area of 471 square miles. With a spillway width of 650 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 64,200 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to manage high hazard potential. The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for Bowman Haley Dam meets guidelines and includes inundation maps, ensuring preparedness for potential risks and emergencies.

Overall, Bowman Haley Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and providing essential water resources for the region. Its construction and maintenance by the US Army Corps of Engineers demonstrate a dedication to safeguarding the surrounding community and environment from potential hazards associated with water management.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

5730

River Or Stream

NORTH FORK GRAND RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1750

Hydraulic Height

74

Drainage Area

471

Nid Storage

171838

Structural Height

79

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

79
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.