Scs-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-57 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-57 is a state-regulated earth dam located in Noble, Oklahoma, specifically in the city of SUMNER.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1976 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the TR-BLACK BEAR CREEK. With a height of 36 feet and a length of 1200 feet, it has a storage capacity of 1357 acre-feet, providing protection to the surrounding area against potential flooding events.
Despite its age, SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-57 is considered to have a low hazard potential and has not been structurally assessed. With a controlled spillway and a maximum discharge of 2900 cubic feet per second, this dam is equipped with a valve outlet gate for controlled water release. While the risk assessment categorizes it as very high (1), the dam has not been assigned a Dam Safety Action Classification (DSAC) date, indicating the need for further evaluation and potential risk management measures to ensure its continued safety and functionality for the community.
Overall, SCS-Upper Black Bear Creek Site-57 presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the importance of effective dam regulation and management in mitigating flood risks and ensuring the safety of surrounding areas. As a state-regulated structure with a significant storage capacity, this dam serves as a vital component of the local infrastructure, highlighting the ongoing need for regular inspections and maintenance to address any potential safety concerns and uphold its role in providing flood protection for the community.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
1200 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BLACK BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
36 |
Hydraulic Height |
36 |
Nid Storage |
1357 |
Structural Height |
36 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
36 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Skeleton Creek Near Lovell
|
27cfs |
Skeleton Creek At Enid
|
7cfs |
Salt Fork Arkansas River At Tonkawa
|
519cfs |
Cimarron River Near Guthrie
|
477cfs |
Black Bear Creek At Pawnee
|
10cfs |
Cimarron River Near Ripley
|
508cfs |
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-57