West Fork Big Creek Dam B- 97 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
West Fork Big Creek Dam B- 97, located in Bethany, Missouri, was completed in 1992 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a local government-owned structure for flood risk reduction along the West Fork Big Creek.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at 27 feet tall with a length of 650 feet and has a storage capacity of 81 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, it has a moderate risk assessment rating due to its location and potential impact on surrounding areas.
The dam has a stone core and soil foundation, with an uncontrolled spillway that is 30 feet wide. It has not been inspected or assessed for condition, but is currently rated as "Not Rated." With no outlet gates and a moderate risk level, the dam serves an important purpose in protecting the surrounding area from flooding events. While there are no associated structures or emergency action plans in place, the West Fork Big Creek Dam B- 97 remains a critical asset in managing water resources in Harrison County, Missouri.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering and design behind West Fork Big Creek Dam B- 97, as well as its role in flood risk reduction for the local community. The dam, with its moderate risk assessment and low hazard potential, highlights the importance of infrastructure in managing water resources and protecting against potential disasters. As a key feature along the West Fork Big Creek, this dam serves as a vital component in the broader water management system in Harrison County, Missouri, demonstrating the ongoing need for monitoring, maintenance, and risk assessment in safeguarding against environmental threats.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEST FORK BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
24 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
230 |
Nid Storage |
81 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
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- 97