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. 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.