East Fork Big Creek Dam A- 4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
East Fork Big Creek Dam A-4, located in Bethany, Missouri, is a crucial piece of infrastructure designed by the USDA NRCS to reduce flood risks in the area.
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Summary
Completed in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet with a structural height of 31 feet and a length of 690 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 1055 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 96 square miles, with a spillway width of 200 feet to handle a maximum discharge of 3732 cubic feet per second.
This dam, situated on Bracken Branch, is primarily owned by the local government and serves as a vital flood risk reduction structure in the region. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, East Fork Big Creek Dam A-4 plays a crucial role in managing water resources and ensuring the safety of the surrounding community. Despite not being state regulated or inspected, this dam continues to fulfill its purpose effectively and efficiently.
With its strategic location and design, East Fork Big Creek Dam A-4 remains a key component of water resource management in Harrison County, Missouri. As a significant feature in the landscape, this dam exemplifies the importance of infrastructure in mitigating flood risks and protecting the environment for future generations.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
690 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
BRACKEN BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Drainage Area |
96 |
Nid Storage |
1055 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
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.
East Fork Big Creek Dam A- 4