East Fork Big Creek Dam E- 27 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

East Fork Big Creek Dam E-27, also known as Site E-27, is a local government-owned earth dam located in Bethany, Missouri.


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Summary

Designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1990, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the East Fork Big Creek. Standing at 27 feet tall with a length of 440 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 8 acres.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, East Fork Big Creek Dam E-27 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 16 feet and has not been modified since its completion. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam is not regulated by the state and does not require regular inspections, indicating a stable and well-maintained structure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, East Fork Big Creek Dam E-27 presents an interesting case study of a locally-owned flood control infrastructure in Missouri. With its strategic location and design by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves as a vital component in managing flood risks along the East Fork Big Creek, showcasing the importance of effective water management strategies in mitigating natural disasters and protecting communities.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

440

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

EAST FORK BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

140.8

Nid Storage

76

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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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.