Bemear Reservoir Report
Nearby: Clay Township Site 002-1 Daney Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Located in Sullivan, Missouri, Bemear is a privately owned earth dam built in 1995 for the primary purpose of grade stabilization along the Medicine Creek.
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Summary
With a height of 28 feet and a hydraulic height of 23 feet, Bemear serves as a crucial structure in managing water flow in the area, with a normal storage capacity of 46 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 62 acre-feet. The dam spans 575 feet in length and covers a surface area of 6.1 acres, contributing to the drainage area of 179.84 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential, Bemear is considered a moderate risk structure, with a risk assessment rating of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 12 feet and does not have any outlet gates. While its condition assessment is currently not rated, the structure has not undergone any recent inspections. Bemear plays a vital role in the local water resource management system, highlighting the importance of monitoring and maintaining such infrastructure to ensure its continued functionality and safety for the community and the environment.
With Sam Graves (R) as the representative for the area in the US Congress, the Rock Island District oversees Bemear's operations. Although not regulated or permitted by the state, this earth dam is a key component in the water infrastructure of the region, contributing to the overall ecological health and climate resilience of the area. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the significance of structures like Bemear in safeguarding our natural resources and adapting to the challenges posed by a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1995 |
Dam Length |
575 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
MEDICINE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
179.84 |
Nid Storage |
62 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Bemear