East Fork Big Creek Dam E- 80 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

East Fork Big Creek Dam E-80, located in Bethany, Missouri, was completed in 1985 and is owned by the local government.


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Summary

The dam, designed by USDA NRCS, serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the East Fork Big Creek. Standing at 26 feet tall with a length of 540 feet, the earth dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 156 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2 acres.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, East Fork Big Creek Dam E-80 is deemed to pose a manageable level of risk. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 35 feet and has no outlet gates. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam has not undergone any recent inspections or maintenance. Despite its lack of state regulation or permitting, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, East Fork Big Creek Dam E-80 presents an interesting case study in flood risk reduction infrastructure. Its design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service highlight the importance of collaboration between local and federal agencies in managing water resources. As climate change continues to impact the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, the role of dams like E-80 in safeguarding communities against flooding becomes increasingly significant.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

540

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

EAST FORK BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

38.4

Nid Storage

156

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.