Bear Creek Site 17 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bear Creek Site 17, also known as Spring Grove Twp 34, is a local government-owned dam located in Dorchester, Iowa, within Houston County, Minnesota.


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Summary

Built in 2006 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 34 feet and has a length of 350 feet, serving primarily for flood risk reduction along the Bear Creek-TR stream. The dam has a storage capacity of 118 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 1.7 acres, with a drainage area of 1 square mile.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Bear Creek Site 17 is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the MNDNR EWR to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is subject to moderate risk, indicating the need for continued risk management measures. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates pose potential challenges in flood control, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate any associated risks.

Overall, Bear Creek Site 17 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding community from flooding events, showcasing the collaborative efforts of local government agencies and the USDA NRCS in water resource management. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the innovative design and functionality of this dam, as well as the ongoing commitment to safeguarding public safety and environmental sustainability in the region.

Year Completed

2006

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

BEAR CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.7

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

118

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.