East Fork Big Creek Dam Z- 17 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

East Fork Big Creek Dam Z- 17, located in Harrison County, Missouri, was completed in 1988 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 21 feet and spans a length of 545 feet, providing a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 2 acres. With a spillway width of 24 feet and a maximum discharge rate of 48 cubic feet per second, the dam is designed to handle potential flood events effectively.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, East Fork Big Creek Dam Z- 17 is considered to have a moderate risk level, as per the risk assessment rating of 3. While the dam is not currently regulated or inspected by the state, it meets the guidelines for emergency action plans (EAP) and has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam's location in a rural area with limited associated structures reflects its function primarily for flood risk management, emphasizing its importance in protecting the surrounding community from potential water-related hazards.

Overall, East Fork Big Creek Dam Z- 17 serves as a vital infrastructure asset in the region, contributing to the overall resilience and safety of the area against flooding events. With its modest size and design, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks along the East Fork Big Creek, showcasing the collaborative effort between local government and the USDA NRCS in safeguarding the community's well-being and ensuring sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1988

Dam Length

545

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

EAST FORK BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

96

Nid Storage

51

Structural Height

21

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.