East Fork Big Creek Dam E- 59 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

East Fork Big Creek Dam E-59, 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 earthen dam stands at a height of 24 feet and spans 535 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a drainage area of 189.44 square miles. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is classified as having a moderate risk level, indicating the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet, and while it currently lacks outlet gates, it is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 40 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area covers 7 acres, providing essential protection to nearby communities and infrastructure from flooding events. The dam is not state-regulated and does not require permitting, inspection, or enforcement at the state level, with the Rock Island District overseeing its operations.

East Fork Big Creek Dam E-59 serves as a vital component in the region's flood risk reduction efforts, showcasing the collaboration between local government and federal agencies in safeguarding communities and the environment. With its strategic location and design, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and climate-related challenges in the area, highlighting the importance of proactive risk assessment and management for resilient infrastructure.

Year Completed

1987

Dam Length

535

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

EAST FORK BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

189.44

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.