Bear Creek
Key Takeaway
Bear Creek is classified as significant hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1966 and is 60 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 10 ft (taller than 4.4% in CO) |
| Dam Length | 400 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 8 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 5 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 168 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1966 (60 years old) |
| NID ID | CO02793 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
CITY OF STEAMBOAT SPRINGS (COSBY;PARKS, OPEN SPAC
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Low Hazard 30 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bear Creek?
Bear Creek is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Bear Creek?
Bear Creek is owned by CITY OF STEAMBOAT SPRINGS (COSBY;PARKS, OPEN SPAC (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bear Creek built?
Bear Creek was completed in 1966, making it 60 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Bear Creek?
Bear Creek serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Bear Creek?
Bear Creek has a dam height of 10 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Bear Creek last inspected?
Bear Creek was last inspected on August 29, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.