Bowles Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Tabscott Dam South Tabscott Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bowles Dam, located in Fluvanna, Virginia, is a crucial water resource structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet along Horsepen Creek, serving primarily for recreational purposes with a storage capacity of 128 acre-feet. Despite its undetermined hazard potential and lack of a current condition assessment, the dam remains a key feature in the Norfolk District, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.
While specific details about the dam's completion date and modifications are not provided, its existence plays a vital role in supporting the local environment and recreational activities. The dam's design and hydraulic height of 23 feet contribute to its functionality, serving as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to engage with the surrounding waterways. With a focus on recreation and state regulation, Bowles Dam exemplifies the careful balance between water resource management and community engagement.
As water enthusiasts continue to explore the area surrounding Bowles Dam, the need for ongoing inspections and risk assessments remains critical. Although the dam's hazard potential is undetermined, its significance in providing recreational opportunities and supporting the local ecosystem cannot be understated. With a focus on safety and environmental stewardship, Bowles Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and community recreation in Fluvanna, Virginia.
Dam Length |
285 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
HORSEPEN CREEK |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Nid Storage |
128 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rivanna River At Palmyra
|
175cfs |
James River At Cartersville
|
1950cfs |
Slate River Near Arvonia
|
68cfs |
Hardware River Bl Briery Run Nr Scottsville
|
52cfs |
James River At Scottsville
|
1470cfs |
North Anna River Near Partlow
|
49cfs |
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.
Bowles Dam