Scs-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-51 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-51 is a state-regulated dam located in Noble, Oklahoma, along the East Warren Creek.
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Summary
Constructed in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 52 feet and spans 2000 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 1371 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is flood risk reduction, serving as a crucial infrastructure to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
With a significant hazard potential and a fair condition assessment, SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-51 is regularly inspected by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam features a controlled spillway type with a width of 1 foot and is equipped with a valve outlet gate for efficient water management. The risk assessment for this dam indicates a very high risk level, emphasizing the importance of proactive risk management measures to mitigate potential threats and ensure the safety of the community downstream.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-51 offers a fascinating case study in dam engineering and flood risk reduction. Its location, design, and regulatory oversight provide valuable insights into the intricate balance between water management infrastructure and environmental protection in the state of Oklahoma. As discussions around climate change and water resource management continue to evolve, this dam serves as a critical piece of the puzzle in safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events and ensuring sustainable water management practices for the future.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
2000 |
Dam Height |
52 |
River Or Stream |
EAST WARREN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
19 |
Hydraulic Height |
52 |
Nid Storage |
1371 |
Structural Height |
52 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
52 |
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-51