Bowman Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bowman Dam, located in Fredericksburg, Virginia, is a private Earth dam on Deep Run with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 44.5 feet and a length of 370 feet, the dam provides a maximum storage capacity of 708.74 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 74 acre-feet. With a surface area of 8.18 acres and a drainage area of 5.08 square miles, Bowman Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Owned by a private entity, Bowman Dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 14 feet, and its hazard potential is classified as low, with a satisfactory condition assessment as of April 2020. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, Bowman Dam remains a significant recreational asset for the local community, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities.

With its location in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, Bowman Dam is a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management of dams and their impact on the surrounding environment. The dam's design by Froehling & Robertson, Inc. and its history of inspections and regulatory oversight underscore its importance in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region.

Dam Length

370

Dam Height

44.5

River Or Stream

Deep Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.18

Drainage Area

5.08

Nid Storage

708.74

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

45
       
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.