West Fork Big Creek Dam B-122 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
West Fork Big Creek Dam B-122, located in Bethany, Missouri, was completed in 1991 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a vital flood risk reduction structure along the West Fork Big Creek.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at 30.2 feet high with a structural height of 30 feet and a length of 340 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 96 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Despite being owned by the local government, the dam is not regulated by the state and does not require state permitting, inspection, or enforcement. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 30 feet and does not have any outlet gates. The condition of the dam is currently not rated, and there is no emergency action plan in place. With a risk management measure of moderate (3), it is essential for stakeholders to stay informed and prepared for any potential risks associated with the dam.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the engineering and design of West Fork Big Creek Dam B-122, which showcases the importance of flood risk reduction structures in safeguarding communities from natural disasters. The dam's location within Harrison County, Missouri, highlights the intersection of environmental conservation and infrastructure development. As stakeholders continue to monitor and assess the dam's condition and potential risks, it is crucial to prioritize safety and resilience in water resource management practices.
Year Completed |
1991 |
Dam Length |
340 |
Dam Height |
30.2 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEST FORK BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
236.8 |
Nid Storage |
96 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
West Fork Big Creek Dam B-122