East Fork Big Creek Dam E- 50 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

East Fork Big Creek Dam E-50, located in Harrison, Missouri, was completed in 1987 by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the East Fork Big Creek.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet with a hydraulic height of 26 feet and a structural height of 28 feet. It spans 435 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 41 acre-feet, providing vital protection to the surrounding area's 80 square mile drainage area.

Despite its low hazard potential, East Fork Big Creek Dam E-50 has a moderate risk rating of 3, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management measures. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet and no outlet gates. While it has not been state regulated or inspected, the dam remains an essential infrastructure for the local community of Bethany and its surrounding areas. With its critical role in flood risk reduction and water resource management, East Fork Big Creek Dam E-50 serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of climate change on water resources.

Year Completed

1987

Dam Length

435

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

EAST FORK BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

80

Nid Storage

41

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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.