Bear Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
Bear Creek Dam is classified as high hazard in Colorado. It was completed in 1979 and is 47 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Length | 5,300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 75.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 110 acres |
| Drainage Area | 236 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 153,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1979 (47 years old) |
| NID ID | CO00004 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
USACE - Omaha District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Quaintance
Jefferson, CO
Low Hazard 44 ftHarriman
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High Hazard 15 ftBear Creek No. 4
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Low Hazard 20 ftSoda Lake #2
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Low Hazard 12 ftCarmody
Jefferson, CO
Significant Hazard 8 ftBergen West
Jefferson, CO
Significant Hazard 25 ftBergen East
Jefferson, CO
High Hazard 40 ftBergen #5
Jefferson, CO
Low Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bear Creek Dam?
Bear Creek Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. 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 USACE - Omaha District (Federal Government). 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 1979, making it 47 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: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Bear Creek Dam last inspected?
Bear Creek Dam was last inspected on June 2, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.