Bear Valley Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bear Valley, also known as Big Bear Lake, is a vital water resource located in Mentone, California.


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Summary

Owned by a public utility, this dam on Bear Creek serves multiple purposes including irrigation, recreation, and water supply. Completed in 1911, the multi-arch dam stands at a height of 80 feet and has a storage capacity of 74,000 acre-feet.

With a drainage area of 38.7 square miles, Bear Valley plays a crucial role in providing water to the surrounding areas. The dam, regulated by the California Department of Water Resources and Safety of Dams, is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in satisfactory condition according to the most recent assessment in September 2017.

Situated in San Bernardino County, Bear Valley's scenic beauty and important role in water supply make it a significant site for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its historical significance, combined with its modern-day impact on the region, make it a fascinating location to study and appreciate in the context of water management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

360

Dam Height

80

River Or Stream

Bear Creek

Primary Dam Type

Multi-Arch

Surface Area

2649

Hydraulic Height

80

Drainage Area

38.7

Nid Storage

74000

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

80
       
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.