Bear Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bear Lake Dam, located in Santa Rosa, Florida, is a state-owned structure completed in 1959 primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at 31 feet high with a length of 735 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 924 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 1023 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Bear Creek, serves multiple functions including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond in addition to its recreational use.

Despite being an uncontrolled spillway type dam with significant hazard potential, Bear Lake Dam has not been rated for condition assessment. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with no specific risk management measures identified at this time. The dam is under state jurisdiction and regulation, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement conducted by the state agencies. The location of the dam falls within the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, with no federal agency ownership or funding associated with the structure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bear Lake Dam presents an interesting case study in dam management and risk assessment. The dam's significant hazard potential and moderate risk assessment highlight the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment. The dam's multiple purposes and state regulation underscore the complex considerations that go into managing water resources in a way that balances human needs with environmental protection. With its scenic location and recreational opportunities, Bear Lake Dam serves as a valuable resource for the community while also posing challenges that require careful monitoring and management.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

735

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

106

Hydraulic Height

31

Nid Storage

1023

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

31
       
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.