East Fork Big Creek Dam E- 56 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
East Fork Big Creek Dam E-56, located in Harrison, Missouri, is a crucial structure designed by the USDA NRCS to primarily reduce flood risks along the East Fork Big Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1987, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans 490 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 95 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, this dam serves as a significant flood control measure in the region.
Managed by the local government, East Fork Big Creek Dam E-56 is not regulated or inspected by the state, showcasing its reliance on federal agencies like the Natural Resources Conservation Service for design and construction. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type and the absence of outlet gates, this dam effectively mitigates flood risks for the surrounding area. With a surface area of 8 acres and a drainage area of 240 square miles, this structure plays a vital role in safeguarding the community from potential water-related disasters.
Although not currently rated for condition assessment, East Fork Big Creek Dam E-56 remains a critical infrastructure for flood risk reduction in Bethany, Missouri. With its strategic location and operational capabilities, this dam continues to uphold its purpose of protecting the local area from the impacts of extreme weather events and water resource challenges.
Year Completed |
1987 |
Dam Length |
490 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
EAST FORK BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Drainage Area |
240 |
Nid Storage |
95 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
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.
East Fork Big Creek Dam E- 56