Bear Creek Dam

BEAR CREEK· Jefferson, New York· Built 1922· Buttress· 28 ft tall
Significant Hazard Other Private

Key Takeaway

Bear Creek Dam is classified as significant hazard in New York. It was completed in 1922 and is 104 years old. Its primary use is other. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 28 ft (taller than 75.9% in NY)
Dam Length227 ft
Dam TypeButtress
Max Storage103 acre-ft
Normal Storage80 acre-ft
Surface Area12 acres
Drainage Area6 sq mi
Year Completed1922 (104 years old)
NID IDNY01244

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: June 6, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NYS DEC

Ownership

REBECCA ELLIS

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Bear Creek Dam?

Bear Creek Dam 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 Dam?

Bear Creek Dam is owned by REBECCA ELLIS (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Bear Creek Dam built?

Bear Creek Dam was completed in 1922, making it 104 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 Dam?

Bear Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Bear Creek Dam?

Bear Creek Dam has a dam height of 28 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 Dam last inspected?

Bear Creek Dam was last inspected on June 6, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.