Bear Creek Diversion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bear Creek Diversion, also known as Bear Diversion, is a privately owned hydroelectric structure located in Mono Hot Springs, California.


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Summary

Completed in 1927, this concrete dam stands at a height of 55 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 103 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is to generate hydroelectric power, utilizing the flow of Bear Creek to produce energy.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Bear Creek Diversion is regulated and inspected to ensure its safety and operational efficiency. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 232 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 10,000 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is subject to moderate risk assessment, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and management measures.

Situated in Fresno County, California, Bear Creek Diversion plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region. With its historical significance and contribution to renewable energy production, this hydroelectric structure exemplifies the intersection of engineering innovation and environmental stewardship in harnessing the power of water resources for sustainable development.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

293

Dam Height

55

River Or Stream

Bear Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

55

Drainage Area

54

Nid Storage

103

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

55
       
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.