Weatherfordbear #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Weatherfordbear #2, also known as Weatherford-Bear Creek Dam 2, is a local government-owned earth dam located in Martins Mills, Tennessee.


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Summary

Built in 1969 by USDA NRCS, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Bear Creek. Standing at a hydraulic height of 15.3 feet and a structural height of 48.8 feet, Weatherfordbear #2 has a storage capacity of 2627 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 25 acres.

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Weatherfordbear #2 is regularly inspected and deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of August 2020. With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment score of 3, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from flooding events. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway type of Weatherfordbear #2 ensures the safe release of excess water during peak flow periods.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the engineering and design aspects of Weatherfordbear #2, as well as its contribution to flood risk reduction and recreation in the region. With its strategic location in Wayne County, Tennessee and the involvement of various state and federal agencies in its regulation and maintenance, this dam stands as a vital infrastructure for water management in the area.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

1432

River Or Stream

BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

15.3

Drainage Area

6.02

Nid Storage

2627

Structural Height

48.8

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

49
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.