Scs-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-47 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-47 is a state-regulated earth dam located in Noble, Oklahoma, specifically in the city of Sumner.
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Summary
Built in 1961 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along TR-Warren Creek, with a maximum storage capacity of 582 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 105 acre-feet. Despite being classified as having low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a very high risk assessment rating, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance.
With a structural height of 33 feet and a length of 1290 feet, SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-47 features a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate. The dam is primarily designed for flood risk reduction purposes, and is under the jurisdiction of the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB). Although the condition assessment is currently not rated and the last inspection took place in 1999, the dam is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, highlighting the commitment to ensuring its safety and functionality for the surrounding community and environment.
As part of the Tulsa District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-47 stands as a vital infrastructure for managing water resources in the area. With its strategic location and design, this dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and protecting the local ecosystem. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will appreciate the intricate details of this structure, from its earth-core dam type to its stone foundation, showcasing the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
1290 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WARREN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
22 |
Hydraulic Height |
33 |
Nid Storage |
582 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
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-47