East Fork Big Creek Dam E- 81 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
East Fork Big Creek Dam E-81, located in Bethany, Missouri, was completed in 1984 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a vital flood risk reduction structure on the East Fork Big Creek.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a structural height of 29 feet, with a length of 380 feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet and a normal storage of 16 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 5 acres.
The dam, constructed with stone core and soil foundation, features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 25 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 50 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as low hazard potential and not yet rated for condition assessment, the risk assessment for this dam is moderate. With no outlet gates or associated structures, the East Fork Big Creek Dam E-81 plays a crucial role in mitigating flooding in the Harrison County area, contributing to water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
As a locally owned structure under the jurisdiction of the Rock Island District, East Fork Big Creek Dam E-81 symbolizes the collaborative efforts between the local government and federal agencies in enhancing water resource infrastructure for flood control purposes. With a focus on risk management and emergency preparedness, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in ensuring the safety and resilience of communities facing climate-related challenges.
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Length |
380 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
EAST FORK BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
70.4 |
Nid Storage |
65 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
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- 81