Bowe Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Jim Falls, Wisconsin, Bowe is a privately owned dam designed by USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 570 feet in length along the Chippewa River Tributary. With a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 75 cubic feet per second, Bowe serves as a vital resource for both water management and recreational activities in the area.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Bowe poses a very high risk, with a risk assessment rating of 1. The dam has not been rated for its condition, and the last inspection took place in September 2011, with a frequency of every 10 years. While the dam is state-regulated and has necessary permits for operation and inspections, there are no specific risk management measures or emergency action plans in place. With its strategic location and importance for the surrounding community, ensuring the safety and maintenance of Bowe will be crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

In the event of any potential emergencies or changes in regulatory requirements, Bowe is in need of updated emergency action plans, risk assessments, and condition assessments to mitigate the high risk associated with this dam. As a key infrastructure for fire protection and recreational purposes, it is essential that Bowe receives regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety of its users and the surrounding environment. Collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies will be crucial in developing and implementing necessary risk management measures to safeguard this important water resource for future generations.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

570

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Chippewa River Tributary

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

58

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.