Scs-Lower Black Bear Creek Site-01 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
SCS-Lower Black Bear Creek Site-01 is a state-regulated earth dam located in Pawnee, Oklahoma, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Built in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a hydraulic height of 37 feet. With a storage capacity of 470 acre-feet and a normal storage of 54 acre-feet, it serves to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a very high risk assessment score of 1, indicating the critical importance of its maintenance and monitoring. The dam features a controlled spillway and one valve outlet gate for water release. Although last inspected in 1980, the dam is in overall good condition and has not been rated. With a drainage area yet to be specified, this site serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control and water resource management in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, SCS-Lower Black Bear Creek Site-01 presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure and risk management. With its unique design and historical significance, this earth dam provides valuable insight into flood risk reduction strategies and the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. As a key component of the state's water resource infrastructure, this site highlights the critical role that dams play in protecting communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
1050 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BLACK BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
37 |
Nid Storage |
470 |
Structural Height |
40 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
40 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black Bear Creek At Pawnee
|
11cfs |
Arkansas River At Ralston
|
1820cfs |
Hominy Creek Near Hominy
|
2cfs |
Cimarron River Near Ripley
|
544cfs |
Salt Fork Arkansas River At Tonkawa
|
535cfs |
Bird Creek At Avant
|
9cfs |
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-Lower Black Bear Creek Site-01