Scs-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-36 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-36 is a state-owned structure located in Sumner, Oklahoma, along the TR-Black Bear Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1971 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and stretches 1300 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 374 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is flood risk reduction, serving as a crucial infrastructure to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding.
Managed by the OWRB, SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-36 has a low hazard potential and is categorized as having a very high risk assessment due to its location and purpose. Despite its age, the dam has not undergone recent condition assessments and is currently rated as "Not Rated." With one valve outlet gate and a controlled spillway, this structure is equipped to handle a maximum discharge of 410 cubic feet per second. While the last inspection dates back to 1980, regular inspections are scheduled every 5 years to ensure the dam's integrity and functionality.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-36 presents an intriguing case study of a vital flood risk reduction infrastructure in Oklahoma. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a critical component in the state's water management system. Its design, construction, and operation provide valuable insights into the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and infrastructure maintenance.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
1300 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BLACK BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
374 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Skeleton Creek At Enid
|
6cfs |
Skeleton Creek Near Lovell
|
28cfs |
Salt Fork Arkansas River At Tonkawa
|
372cfs |
Cimarron River Near Dover
|
296cfs |
Cimarron River Near Guthrie
|
425cfs |
Chikaskia River Near Blackwell
|
193cfs |
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-36