Bear Valley S-16a Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bear Valley S-22b Bear Valley S-21b
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Bear Valley S-16a is a crucial flood risk reduction structure located in Wabasha, Minnesota.
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Summary
Built in 1963 by the USDA NRCS, this private earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 332 feet in length along Cold Creek-TR. With a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet, it serves as a vital defense against potential flooding events in the area.
Managed by the MNDNR EWR, Bear Valley S-16a is subject to regular state inspections, ensuring its structural integrity and operational readiness. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is considered to be in satisfactory condition, with a moderate risk rating of 3. While its emergency action plan status and risk management measures are not fully detailed, the structure remains a key component in the region's water resource and climate resilience efforts.
Situated in a picturesque setting, Bear Valley S-16a not only safeguards the local community from flood risks but also contributes to the overall ecological balance of the area. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance, this dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and the collaborative efforts of government agencies and private stakeholders in ensuring the safety and sustainability of our natural surroundings.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
332 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
COLD CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.7 |
Nid Storage |
67 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mississippi River At Red Wing
|
12400cfs |
South Fork Zumbro River At Rochester
|
85cfs |
Zumbro River At Kellogg
|
1550cfs |
Cannon River At Welch
|
384cfs |
Chippewa River At Durand
|
3260cfs |
Mississippi River At Prescott
|
12900cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Bear Valley S-16a