Scs-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-20 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
The SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-20 in Noble, Oklahoma, is a state-regulated earth dam designed by USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1963, this dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a storage capacity of 466 acre-feet. It spans a length of 1150 feet and has a controlled spillway with a width of 1 foot. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is rated very high, indicating the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring.
Located in the Tulsa District with a river/stream connection to TR-Black Bear Creek, this dam is inspected every five years with the last assessment conducted in 1999. Although its condition is currently not rated, the presence of a valve outlet gate suggests some level of operational control. With the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan status yet to be determined, stakeholders in the area, including the State Regulatory Agency OWRB, must prioritize proactive measures to ensure the safety and integrity of this vital flood control structure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-20 offers a fascinating case study in dam infrastructure and risk management. As the dam continues to serve its essential function of flood risk reduction in the region, ongoing assessments and potential updates to emergency preparedness protocols will be crucial in safeguarding the surrounding community and environment. With a rich history dating back to the 1960s, this earth dam stands as a testament to the intricate balance between water resource management, public safety, and environmental stewardship in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
1150 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BLACK BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
466 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Salt Fork Arkansas River At Tonkawa
|
519cfs |
Skeleton Creek Near Lovell
|
27cfs |
Skeleton Creek At Enid
|
7cfs |
Cimarron River Near Guthrie
|
477cfs |
Chikaskia River Near Blackwell
|
231cfs |
Black Bear Creek At Pawnee
|
10cfs |
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-20