Bear Creek 3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hayhurst Road Drain Plywood Log Pond
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Bear Creek 3 is a crucial water supply infrastructure located in the city of Drain, Oregon, and serves as a primary source of water for the region.
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Summary
This earth dam, completed in 1973, stands at a height of 55 feet and has a storage capacity of 500 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 2750 cubic feet per second, Bear Creek 3 plays a vital role in managing water resources in Douglas County.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Bear Creek 3 has been assessed to have a fair condition but a high hazard potential. The dam has a spillway type of slide gate and outlet gates in the form of a sluice gate. The last inspection in August 2020 revealed the dam to be in satisfactory condition, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and effectiveness. With its strategic location on Bear Creek and its pivotal role in water supply, Bear Creek 3 stands as a critical piece of infrastructure for the community and the environment.
Highlighted by its storage capacity, hydraulic height, and structural design, Bear Creek 3 is a testament to the engineering expertise and environmental stewardship that go into managing water resources and mitigating climate-related risks. With its history of serving the region since the 1970s and its ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam exemplifies the intersection of water supply management, infrastructure resilience, and climate adaptation. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the significance of Bear Creek 3 lies not just in its physical presence but in its enduring impact on the community and the environment it serves.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
55 |
River Or Stream |
BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21 |
Hydraulic Height |
53 |
Drainage Area |
4.9 |
Nid Storage |
500 |
Structural Height |
57.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
58 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Eagleview Group Site
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Tyee - Sutherlin
|
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Pass Creek County Park
|
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Tyee Recreation Site
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Bear Creek 3