Bear Valley S-21b Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bear Valley S-22b Hadler Detention
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Bear Valley S-21b, located in Zumbro Falls, Minnesota, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1963 by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along Cold Creek.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 26 feet and spanning 540 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 132 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.1 square miles. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected and maintained by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to ensure its structural integrity and satisfactory condition.
With a maximum discharge of 605 cubic feet per second, Bear Valley S-21b utilizes an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving the surrounding area by mitigating potential flooding events. While the dam is deemed to have a moderate risk level, it meets regulatory guidelines and is equipped with emergency action plans to address any unforeseen circumstances. The surrounding community benefits from the dam's presence as it helps safeguard against potential flood damage and provides essential water resource management for the region.
Overall, Bear Valley S-21b plays a crucial role in protecting the Wabasha County area from flood risks, ensuring the safety and security of residents in Zumbro Falls. As a key structure in the region's water resource infrastructure, the dam serves as a vital component in managing water flow and minimizing the impact of potential flooding events. With regular inspections and maintenance, Bear Valley S-21b continues to fulfill its purpose of flood risk reduction effectively and efficiently, contributing to the overall resilience of the local ecosystem and community.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
COLD CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Drainage Area |
1.1 |
Nid Storage |
132 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Fork Zumbro River At Rochester
|
85cfs |
Mississippi River At Red Wing
|
12400cfs |
Cannon River At Welch
|
384cfs |
Zumbro River At Kellogg
|
1550cfs |
Mississippi River At Prescott
|
12900cfs |
Chippewa River At Durand
|
3260cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Covered Bridge Park Campground
|
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Oronococ City Park
|
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Hay Creek Valley Campground
|
Bear Valley S-21b