Bear Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jaynes Dam Crystal Blue Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Bear Creek Dam, located in Hannibal, Missouri, is a critical infrastructure owned by the local government to mitigate flood risks along Bear Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1962, this earth dam stands at 65 feet tall and stretches 1,152 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 14,155 acre-feet. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, last inspected in January 2017.
Managed by the Dam and Reservoir Safety Program, Bear Creek Dam is regulated and permitted by the state of Missouri for safety inspections and enforcement. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, this structure plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation during heavy rainfall events. The dam's satisfactory condition and regular inspections ensure its effectiveness in safeguarding the community.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience can appreciate Bear Creek Dam for its significant contribution to flood risk management in Ralls County, Missouri. With a strategic location on Bear Creek and a history of successful flood control, this earth dam stands as a testament to effective infrastructure design and maintenance in the face of natural disasters. Its high hazard potential underscores the importance of continued monitoring and proactive risk management to ensure the safety and security of the local community.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
1152 |
Dam Height |
65 |
River Or Stream |
BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
545.4 |
Drainage Area |
17357 |
Nid Storage |
14155 |
Structural Height |
64 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
65 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bear Creek At Hannibal
|
2cfs |
Salt River Near New London
|
62cfs |
Salt River Near Center
|
45cfs |
North River At Palmyra
|
13cfs |
Spencer Cr. Bl Plum Cr. Nr Frankford
|
24cfs |
South Fabius River Near Taylor
|
12cfs |
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 Creek Dam