Lowe Dam; Donald Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bagley Dam Mud Creek Impoundment Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lowe Dam in Donald, North Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1969 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
The dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, with a maximum storage capacity of 63 acre-feet and a normal storage of 30 acre-feet. Situated on the Little Missouri River, the dam has a height of 21 feet and a length of 647 feet, creating a surface area of 7 acres.
The dam has a low hazard potential and is not currently rated for its condition. It is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission and has state permits for operation and inspection. The spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 50 feet, and there are no associated locks or outlet gates. Despite its moderate risk assessment, Lowe Dam remains a popular spot for recreational activities in the Bowman area, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts to its picturesque surroundings and peaceful waters.
Overall, Lowe Dam in Donald offers a serene and scenic location for outdoor recreation, with its earth structure providing a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors. Its modest size and low hazard potential make it an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing day by the water, surrounded by the natural beauty of North Dakota's landscape. With its rich history dating back to 1969, Lowe Dam continues to be a cherished resource for the local community and a hidden gem for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
647 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE MISSOURI-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
0.47 |
Nid Storage |
63 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Lowe Dam; Donald