Scs-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-42 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-42 is a state-regulated earth dam located in Garfield, Oklahoma, along Panther Creek.
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Summary
Built by the USDA NRCS in 1961, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction with a dam height of 35 feet and a length of 1050 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 415 acre-feet and a normal storage of 85 acre-feet, providing essential protection for the surrounding area.
Despite being classified as low hazard potential, the dam is rated as having a very high risk level, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 1 foot and an outlet gate consisting of a single valve. While the condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Rated," the dam has not undergone modifications in recent years, highlighting the need for updated evaluations to ensure continued safety and functionality.
With the potential for high risk in the event of failure, it is crucial for the regulatory agency, OWRB, to maintain a proactive approach to risk management and emergency preparedness. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring and supporting the upkeep of vital infrastructure like SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-42 is essential in protecting communities and ecosystems from the impacts of flooding and ensuring sustainable water management practices in the region.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
1050 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
PANTHER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Nid Storage |
415 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Skeleton Creek At Enid
|
4cfs |
Skeleton Creek Near Lovell
|
27cfs |
Cimarron River Near Guthrie
|
459cfs |
Salt Fork Arkansas River At Tonkawa
|
464cfs |
Cimarron River Near Dover
|
312cfs |
Cottonwood Creek Near Seward
|
66cfs |
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-42