Bear Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bear Creek, located in Routt County, Colorado, near Steamboat Springs, is a recreational reservoir managed by the local government.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1966, is primarily used for recreation purposes and stands at a height of 10 feet with a length of 400 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 8 acre-feet and a normal storage of 5 acre-feet, Bear Creek offers a serene environment for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy water-based activities.

Despite its fair condition assessment and significant hazard potential, Bear Creek is regularly inspected, regulated, and permitted by the Colorado Department of Water Resources to ensure the safety of the surrounding community. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 12 feet, can manage a maximum discharge of 168 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment for Bear Creek is moderate, emphasizing the importance of effective risk management measures and emergency action preparedness.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Bear Creek a captivating destination, offering both recreational opportunities and a unique look into dam management practices. Its picturesque location, combined with its regulated operations and safety measures, make it a valuable asset for the local community and a key player in water resource management in Colorado.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

BEAR CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

8

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.