East Fork Big Creek Dam E- 65a Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
East Fork Big Creek Dam E-65a, located in Bethany, Missouri, is a vital infrastructure designed by the USDA NRCS to serve as a flood risk reduction measure along the East Fork Big Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1986, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and stretches 600 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 88 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment score of 3, this dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Owned by the local government, East Fork Big Creek Dam E-65a is primarily used for flood risk reduction purposes, with a stone core and soil foundation supporting its structure. Although not regulated by the state and lacking recent condition assessments, this dam is deemed to be in a satisfactory condition. With a spillway width of 35 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 70 cubic feet per second, this dam ensures efficient water management during periods of high water flow. Despite the absence of an Emergency Action Plan (EAP), the dam's emergency risk management measures are considered adequate, making it a crucial asset in the region's water resource infrastructure.
In conclusion, East Fork Big Creek Dam E-65a serves as a reliable flood risk reduction asset in Harrison County, Missouri, under the jurisdiction of the Rock Island District. With its strategic location and effective design, this dam plays a critical role in managing water flow along the East Fork Big Creek, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events and ensuring the safety of the local community.
Year Completed |
1986 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
EAST FORK BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
160 |
Nid Storage |
88 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
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 E- 65a