Upper Bear is a privately-owned hydroelectric dam located in Pioneer, California, along the Bear River. Constructed in 1900, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 77 feet and has a storage capacity of 7,306 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 6,760 acre-feet and a surface area of 173 acres, Upper Bear plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Upper Bear has a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Although the condition assessment is not available, the dam undergoes regular inspections and has an emergency action plan in place. With a maximum discharge capacity of 19,280 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway width of 355 feet, Upper Bear is equipped to handle varying water levels and ensure community safety in case of emergencies.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the infrastructure and environmental impact of dams will find Upper Bear's data intriguing. From its historical significance as a hydroelectric facility to its current risk management measures, Upper Bear serves as a vital component in the water supply and flood control system of Amador County, California.