East Fork Big Creek Dam Lt- 53 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

East Fork Big Creek Dam Lt- 53, also known as Land Treatment Dam Lt-53, is a private-owned earth dam located in Harrison, Missouri.


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Summary

Built in 1987 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves the primary purpose of grade stabilization along the East Fork Big Creek. Standing at a height of 31 feet, with a structural height of 33 feet and a length of 300 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet and a drainage area of 96 acres.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, East Fork Big Creek Dam Lt- 53 plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region while minimizing the risk of potential hazards. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 15 feet and is constructed using stone core and soil foundation. Despite not being state-regulated or inspected, this dam serves as an essential infrastructure for grade stabilization and water management in the area.

Overall, East Fork Big Creek Dam Lt- 53 is a key component in the water resource infrastructure of Missouri, contributing to the conservation and management of water resources in the region. Its construction and design by the USDA NRCS highlight the importance of sustainable water management practices and the collaboration between private owners and federal agencies in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of dam structures for climate and water enthusiasts to appreciate and learn from.

Year Completed

1987

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

EAST FORK BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

96

Nid Storage

31

Structural Height

33

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

33
       
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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.