Scs-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-32 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-32 is a state-regulated earthen dam located in Garfield, Oklahoma, designed by USDA NRCS in 1972 for flood risk reduction.


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Summary

It stands 30 feet tall and stretches 2100 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 1182 acre-feet. The dam is situated on TR-Black Bear Creek and is under the jurisdiction of the OWRB, with inspection, permitting, and enforcement carried out by the state.

The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 2 feet and a valve outlet gate for water release. Despite being classified as low hazard potential, the risk assessment for SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-32 indicates a very high risk level. The condition assessment is currently not rated, with the last inspection conducted in November 2005. Emergency action preparedness, inundation maps, and risk management measures are not fully documented for this structure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-32 presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure management. With its historical significance in flood risk reduction and the potential risks associated with its current condition, this site serves as a valuable example of the ongoing challenges in maintaining and regulating critical water resources. Further research and evaluation are necessary to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this vital structure in Garfield, Oklahoma.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

2100

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-BLACK BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

36

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

1182

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.