Upper Bear Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lehman Dam Kilpactrick Dairy Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Upper Bear Creek Dam, located in Bear Creek, Alabama, is a vital structure managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) for flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Completed in 1978, this earth dam stands at a height of 85 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 40,100 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Bear Creek River and covers a surface area of 1,470 acres, serving multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, recreation, and water supply for the region.
With a high hazard potential, Upper Bear Creek Dam features a spillway width of 450 feet and is equipped with slide gates and uncontrolled outlets. Despite its age, the dam's risk assessment is rated as moderate, reflecting its structural integrity and management. TVA is responsible for the operation, inspection, and regulation of the dam, ensuring its continued safety and functionality for the surrounding communities.
Although not state-regulated, Upper Bear Creek Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the area from flooding events and providing recreational opportunities for residents. With its scenic location and significant impact on water resources, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of effective water management and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Years Modified |
1997 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
1515 |
Dam Height |
85 |
River Or Stream |
BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1470 |
Hydraulic Height |
79 |
Drainage Area |
113 |
Nid Storage |
40100 |
Structural Height |
85 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
85 |
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.
Upper Bear Creek Dam