Lake Bowen Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Lake Bowen Dam, located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, stands as a vital structure for local water supply, recreation, and other purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1956, this buttress dam spans 660 feet in length and reaches a height of 55 feet, with a storage capacity of 32,000 acre-feet. The dam controls the flow of the South Pacolet River, providing a surface area of 1,450 acres for recreational activities and a normal storage capacity of 22,400 acre-feet.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), Lake Bowen Dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a hazard potential classified as high and a fair condition assessment as of August 2019, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) is crucial for risk management and preparedness in case of unforeseen events. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve the community effectively, reflecting the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates alike.
Lake Bowen Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. As a key infrastructure for water supply and recreation in Spartanburg County, this multi-arch buttress dam plays a vital role in regulating the South Pacolet River. With its significant storage capacity and surface area, the dam provides essential resources for the community while requiring diligent oversight and adherence to regulatory standards set by the state. As climate change impacts water resources worldwide, structures like Lake Bowen Dam highlight the importance of sustainable water management practices and proactive risk assessment measures to safeguard against potential hazards and ensure the long-term viability of essential infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
660 |
Dam Height |
55 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH PACOLET RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Buttress |
Surface Area |
1450 |
Nid Storage |
32000 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
55 |
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.
Lake Bowen Dam
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