Bowers Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cotten's Pond Davy Crockett
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Bowers, located in Gibson County, Tennessee, is a privately owned dam on the Middle Fork Forked Deer River within the Memphis District.
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Summary
Constructed in 1962, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 14.6 feet and a structural height of 19.6 feet, with a length of 980 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 39 acre-feet and a surface area of 6.7 acres.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Bowers has not been inspected since July 2018. The dam has not been rated for condition assessment, and there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with no outlet gates and no associated locks. While the dam is not state-regulated, it is subject to a five-year inspection frequency.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bowers presents an interesting case study in dam infrastructure management and risk assessment. The dam's moderate risk level and lack of recent inspections highlight the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure public safety and environmental protection. Further research and analysis of Bowers could provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with privately owned dams in the Tennessee region.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
980 |
River Or Stream |
MIDDLE FORK FORKED DEER R |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
14.6 |
Drainage Area |
0.06 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Structural Height |
19.6 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Bowers