Scs-Lower Black Bear Creek Site-19m Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
SCS-Lower Black Bear Creek Site-19m, located in Pawnee, Oklahoma, is a state-regulated earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of water supply.
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Summary
Constructed in 1937, this dam stands at a height of 66 feet and has a hydraulic height of 51 feet, providing a normal storage capacity of 6178 acre-feet for the surrounding area. With a surface area of 550 acres and a drainage area of 26.31 square miles, this dam plays a vital role in water resource management in the region.
Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, SCS-Lower Black Bear Creek Site-19m is currently assessed to be in fair condition, with the last inspection conducted in November 2010. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 4 feet and an outlet gate comprising a single valve. The risk assessment for this site indicates a very high risk level, requiring diligent monitoring and management to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. As a key component of the local water supply infrastructure, this dam serves as a critical resource for the community and necessitates ongoing maintenance and oversight.
With a storage capacity of 12664 acre-feet and a structural height of 69 feet, SCS-Lower Black Bear Creek Site-19m is a significant water management structure in the area, operated by the OWRB and subject to state regulatory oversight. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams like this one becomes increasingly crucial in ensuring water security for the region.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
2200 |
Dam Height |
66 |
River Or Stream |
CAMP CREEK TO BLACK BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
550 |
Hydraulic Height |
51 |
Drainage Area |
26.31 |
Nid Storage |
12664 |
Structural Height |
69 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
69 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black Bear Creek At Pawnee
|
11cfs |
Arkansas River At Ralston
|
1820cfs |
Cimarron River Near Ripley
|
544cfs |
Hominy Creek Near Hominy
|
2cfs |
Salt Fork Arkansas River At Tonkawa
|
535cfs |
Cimarron River Near Guthrie
|
489cfs |
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-19m