Bear Creek Watershed Site 47 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bear Creek Watershed Site 47, located in Winneshiek County, Iowa, is a flood risk reduction structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 2006.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam stands at 32 feet in height and spans 430 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 241 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.17 square miles. The dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along TR- South Bear Creek, contributing to the overall management of water resources in the area.

Managed by the Iowa DNR and meeting state regulatory standards, Bear Creek Watershed Site 47 has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While the structure is currently in a not-rated condition, it undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risks. With its uncontrolled spillway type and rock-soil foundation, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding Highlandville community from potential flood events.

As a key component in the water resource infrastructure of the region, Bear Creek Watershed Site 47 provides valuable insights for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding how local governments and agencies collaborate to manage flood risk and protect communities. With its strategic location, design features, and state-regulated operation, this site exemplifies the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding against natural disasters and promoting sustainable water management practices in Iowa.

Year Completed

2006

Dam Length

430

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR- SOUTH BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

1.17

Nid Storage

241

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.