Bear Creek Watershed Site 56 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bear Creek Watershed Site 56, located in Winneshiek, Iowa, is a crucial flood risk reduction structure managed by the local government.


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Summary

Designed by NRCS and completed in 2002, this earth dam stands at 26 feet tall and spans 750 feet, with a storage capacity of 93 acre-feet. The dam is situated on TR- SOUTH BEAR CREEK and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3.

Managed by the Iowa DNR, Bear Creek Watershed Site 56 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities to ensure its functionality and safety. The dam has a surface area of 3.2 acres, draining 0.68 square miles of the watershed area. With an uncontrolled spillway and no outlet gates, the dam is equipped to handle potential flooding events. While the condition assessment is not rated and there is no Emergency Action Plan in place, the structure's risk management measures are under constant review to mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bear Creek Watershed Site 56 presents an intriguing case study of a locally owned flood risk reduction structure that plays a vital role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential inundation. With its strategic location, sizeable storage capacity, and state-regulated operations, this earth dam serves as a key component in the overall water management system of the region. Its design, construction, and ongoing maintenance highlight the collaborative efforts between government agencies and the community to address water-related challenges effectively.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR- SOUTH BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.2

Drainage Area

0.68

Nid Storage

93

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.