East Fork Big Creek Dam E- 53b Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
East Fork Big Creek Dam E- 53b, located in Harrison, Missouri, serves as a critical flood risk reduction structure along the East Fork Big Creek.
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Summary
Constructed in 1986 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a length of 460 feet, with a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 36 feet to manage maximum discharges of up to 72 cubic feet per second.
The primary purpose of East Fork Big Creek Dam E- 53b is flood risk reduction, aligning with its owner, the local government of Bethany. With a drainage area of 256 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. While the structure has not been rated for its condition, it is regularly monitored for any necessary maintenance or upgrades to ensure its continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risks. Overall, East Fork Big Creek Dam E- 53b stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1986 |
Dam Length |
460 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
EAST FORK BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
256 |
Nid Storage |
83 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
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- 53b