Bear Creek Watershed Dam G- 21 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
Bear Creek Watershed Dam G- 21, also known as Structure G-21, is a crucial earth dam located in the Clark County of Missouri.
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Summary
Built in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves the primary purpose of grade stabilization along the TR-Bear Creek river stream. With a height of 26 feet and a length of 400 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4.4 acres, providing essential flood control and water resource management for the surrounding area.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Bear Creek Watershed Dam G- 21 has a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 30 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 250 cubic feet per second. While the dam is not currently state-regulated or inspected, it remains a critical infrastructure for the local government of Taylor, Missouri. With its stone core and soil foundation, this dam plays a vital role in protecting the downstream communities and enhancing the overall resilience of the Bear Creek watershed in the face of changing climate and water resource challenges.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of Bear Creek Watershed Dam G- 21 in maintaining the ecological balance and safeguarding the community against potential flood risks. By understanding the design, construction, and operational details of this earth dam, we can appreciate the collaborative efforts of the USDA NRCS and local government in promoting sustainable water management practices. Moving forward, it is imperative to continue monitoring and assessing the condition of this dam to ensure its long-term effectiveness in mitigating flood hazards and preserving the integrity of the Bear Creek watershed for future generations.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
174 |
Nid Storage |
65 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Fox River At Wayland
|
8cfs |
Des Moines River At St. Francisville
|
1620cfs |
Wyaconda River Above Canton
|
13cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
Bear Creek Near Marcelline
|
5cfs |
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 Watershed Dam G- 21