Arthur R. Bowman Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Arthur R.


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Summary

Bowman, also known as Prineville Dam, is a federal structure owned and operated by the Bureau of Reclamation in Oregon. Completed in 1960, this earth dam on the Crooked River serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction and irrigation. With a height of 245 feet and a storage capacity of over 255,000 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Located in Crook County, Oregon, the Arthur R. Bowman Dam is situated in a strategic position to control the flow of the Crooked River and provide essential water services to the surrounding area. With a spillway width of 20 feet and a hazard potential rated as high, the dam undergoes regular inspections and has undergone modifications in 2011 to enhance its hydraulic and structural integrity. Despite its age, the dam continues to be a vital asset for water resource management and flood control in the region.

Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, the Arthur R. Bowman Dam has a risk assessment rating of moderate and has emergency action plans in place to ensure the safety of downstream communities in case of a potential breach. With its impressive structural height, storage capacity, and historical significance, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Years Modified

2011 - Hydraulic, 2011 - Structural

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

245

River Or Stream

CROOKED RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3028

Hydraulic Height

188

Drainage Area

2635

Nid Storage

255708

Structural Height

245

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

245
       
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.