West Fork Big Creek Dam W- 26 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
West Fork Big Creek Dam W-26, located in Harrison County, Missouri, was completed in 2008 and is primarily designed for flood risk reduction along Wolf Creek.
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Summary
Owned and managed by a private entity, this earth dam stands at a height of 22.4 feet, with a hydraulic height of 22 feet and a structural height of 26 feet. With a storage capacity of 53.3 acre-feet and a normal storage of 13.6 acre-feet, the dam serves to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
The dam spans 460 feet in length and covers a surface area of 9 acres, drawing water from a drainage area of 1188 acres. Equipped with an uncontrolled spillway that is 20 feet wide, the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 142 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is rated as moderate (3), emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and reliability in the face of changing climate conditions.
Although the dam has not undergone a recent condition assessment, it is crucial for stakeholders and authorities to prioritize regular inspections and risk management measures to mitigate any potential hazards associated with the structure. With its critical role in flood risk reduction for the area, West Fork Big Creek Dam W-26 serves as a vital component of the region's water resource infrastructure, highlighting the intersection of water management and climate resilience in the face of increasing environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
2008 |
Dam Length |
460 |
Dam Height |
22.4 |
River Or Stream |
WOLF CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
1188 |
Nid Storage |
53.3 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
West Fork Big Creek Dam W- 26