Scs-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-48 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-48, located in Lucien, Oklahoma, is a state-regulated earth dam designed by USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the West Warren Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1966, this dam stands at a height of 53 feet and has a storage capacity of 983 acre-feet. With a significant hazard potential and a fair condition assessment, this dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region.
The dam features a controlled spillway and is equipped with a single valve outlet gate. Despite its age, the dam has been regularly inspected by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB), with the last inspection date recorded in November 2011. The risk assessment for SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-48 indicates a very high risk level, emphasizing the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this vital water resource infrastructure.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of structures like SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-48 in managing water flow and reducing flood risks in the region. By understanding the design, condition, and regulatory oversight of such dams, we can appreciate the intricate balance between water management and environmental protection. As we face increasing challenges from climate change, maintaining and improving infrastructure like SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-48 will be crucial in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
1250 |
Dam Height |
53 |
River Or Stream |
WEST WARREN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Hydraulic Height |
53 |
Nid Storage |
983 |
Structural Height |
53 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
53 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Skeleton Creek Near Lovell
|
27cfs |
Skeleton Creek At Enid
|
4cfs |
Cimarron River Near Guthrie
|
459cfs |
Salt Fork Arkansas River At Tonkawa
|
464cfs |
Cottonwood Creek Near Seward
|
66cfs |
Cimarron River Near Dover
|
312cfs |
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.
Scs-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-48