Scs-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-45 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-45 is a state-regulated dam located in Sumner, Oklahoma, along the TR-Black Bear Creek.
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Summary
This earth dam, designed by USDA NRCS, was completed in 1965 with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction. With a structural height of 29 feet and a length of 1300 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 653 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 960 cubic feet per second.
Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, the risk assessment for SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-45 indicates a very high risk level (1). The dam features a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate. The last inspection was conducted in 1999, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. The condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," suggesting a need for further evaluation to ensure the safety and efficacy of the dam for flood risk management in the area.
Overall, SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-45 serves as a crucial infrastructure for flood risk reduction in Noble, Oklahoma. With its location in a high-risk area and the potential for significant consequences in the event of failure, continued monitoring and assessment are essential to maintain the dam's functionality and ensure the safety of surrounding communities. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find this site to be a noteworthy example of the vital role that dams play in managing water resources and mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
1300 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BLACK BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Nid Storage |
653 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Skeleton Creek At Enid
|
6cfs |
Skeleton Creek Near Lovell
|
27cfs |
Salt Fork Arkansas River At Tonkawa
|
523cfs |
Cimarron River Near Guthrie
|
465cfs |
Chikaskia River Near Blackwell
|
234cfs |
Black Bear Creek At Pawnee
|
11cfs |
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-45