Scs-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-35 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-35, located in Sumner, Oklahoma, is a state-regulated earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS in 1965 for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the TR-Black Bear Creek.
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Summary
With a height of 24 feet and a length of 1600 feet, this dam provides a maximum storage capacity of 756 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 160 acre-feet. The dam features a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate for water release.
Despite being rated as low hazard potential and not yet fully assessed for condition, the SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-35 poses a very high risk due to its location and potential impact on the surrounding area. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. It is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor this dam closely and ensure that proper risk management measures are in place to prevent any potential emergencies or disasters.
With Congressman Frank D. Lucas representing the district in which the dam is located, stakeholders and authorities must work together to keep the SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-35 in optimal condition and prepared for any eventuality. As part of the Tulsa District, this dam plays a vital role in mitigating flood risks and protecting the community and environment. By staying informed and proactive, we can ensure the safety and sustainability of this crucial water resource infrastructure for years to come.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
1600 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BLACK BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
34 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
756 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
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-35