Bear Creek Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bear Creek, a hydroelectric dam located in Tuckasegee, North Carolina, on the East Fork Tuckasegee River, stands as a vital water resource in Jackson County.
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Summary
Built in 1954 with a dam height of 215 feet and a storage capacity of 34,600 acre-feet, Bear Creek plays a crucial role in providing renewable energy and water supply to the region. With a controlled spillway width of 409 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 181,000 cubic feet per second, the dam is well-equipped to manage water flow and mitigate flood risks in the area.
Managed by a public utility agency and overseen by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Bear Creek operates under high hazard potential due to its significant storage capacity and location. While the dam's condition assessment is currently unavailable, regular inspections by the regulatory agency ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its age, Bear Creek continues to contribute to the local economy and environment, reflecting a commitment to sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
As a key player in North Carolina's hydroelectric infrastructure, Bear Creek stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation efforts. With its high-risk potential and strategic location, the dam serves as a critical asset in ensuring water security and energy sustainability for the community. Moving forward, continued monitoring and maintenance will be essential to uphold the dam's operational efficiency and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
760 |
Dam Height |
215 |
River Or Stream |
East Fork Tuckasegee River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
476 |
Drainage Area |
75 |
Nid Storage |
34600 |
Structural Height |
215 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
215 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Ralph Andrews County Park
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CH-1
|
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CH-2
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Sunburst Campground
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Sunburst
|
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Deep Gap Shelter
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Bear Creek