Bear Creek Watershed Site 43 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bear Creek Watershed Site 43, located in Winneshiek County, Iowa, is a flood risk reduction structure designed and managed by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

Completed in 2007, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and spans 415 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 262 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving to protect the surrounding area from potential inundation.

Managed by the Iowa DNR, this site is state-regulated and monitored for inspection, enforcement, and permitting. It is situated along the TR- South Bear Creek, contributing to the overall water resource management in the area. With a low hazard potential and a risk assessment rating of moderate, this structure plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and ensuring the safety of the local community.

Bear Creek Watershed Site 43 is a key component of the water infrastructure in the region, contributing to the overall management and conservation of water resources. With its strategic location and design, this site serves as a vital asset in the efforts to safeguard against flooding and manage water flow effectively. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, the data on this site provides valuable insights into the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events and ensuring the resilience of communities in the face of climate change.

Year Completed

2007

Dam Length

415

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR- SOUTH BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.6

Drainage Area

1.57

Nid Storage

262

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.