East Fork Big Creek Dam Lt- 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

East Fork Big Creek Dam Lt- 3, also known as Harding Dam #1, is a privately owned earth dam located in Harrison, Missouri.


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Summary

Built in 1985 by USDA NRCS, the dam serves the primary purpose of grade stabilization along the East Fork Big Creek. With a structural height of 30 feet and a length of 308 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 34 acre-feet and a drainage area of 19.2 square miles.

Despite being unregulated by the state and having a low hazard potential, East Fork Big Creek Dam Lt- 3 is considered to have a moderate risk level. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 10 feet and has not been rated for its condition assessment. Emergency action plans and risk management measures for the dam are not available, suggesting a need for further evaluation and preparedness.

As a key component in managing water resources in the area, East Fork Big Creek Dam Lt- 3 plays a crucial role in stabilizing the grade along the creek and minimizing the risk of downstream flooding. Its construction by USDA NRCS reflects a commitment to sustainable water management practices, although the absence of state regulation and comprehensive emergency preparedness measures highlights potential areas for improvement in ensuring the safety and resilience of the dam.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

308

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

EAST FORK BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

19.2

Nid Storage

34

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.