Bear Creek No 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ruby Miller Dam Bear Creek No 2
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Bear Creek No 1 is a privately owned dam located in Reeves, Louisiana, along Cane Brake Creek.
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Summary
Built by the USDA NRCS in 1959, this Earth-type dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction. With a height of 24 feet and a length of 4373 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 3620 acre-feet and a surface area of 192 acres, making it a significant structure in the area.
While the dam has a spillway width of 200 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type, its condition assessment in 2018 was deemed unsatisfactory, with a significant hazard potential. Despite regular inspections every 3 years, there are no emergency action plans in place, raising concerns about preparedness in case of a dam failure. The risk assessment for Bear Creek No 1 is moderate (3), indicating the need for proactive risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bear Creek No 1 offers a fascinating study in the intersection of infrastructure, environmental conservation, and public safety. As a key component in flood risk reduction efforts in Allen, Louisiana, this dam stands as a testament to the ongoing challenges and responsibilities associated with managing water resources in a changing climate. Its historical significance, structural details, and risk assessment provide valuable insights for those interested in sustainable water management practices and the implications of aging infrastructure on community resilience.
Dam Height |
17 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
3.97 |
Year Completed |
1959 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
3620 |
Foundations |
Soil |
Surface Area |
192 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
River Or Stream |
CANE BRAKE CREEK |
Dam Length |
4373 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Calcasieu River Near Kinder
|
762cfs |
Whiskey Chitto Creek Near Oberlin
|
253cfs |
Calcasieu River Near Oberlin
|
91cfs |
Bundick Ck Nr De Ridder
|
75cfs |
Bayou Nezpique Near Basile
|
141cfs |
Bayou Anacoco Near Rosepine
|
147cfs |
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.
Bear Creek No 1