West Fork Big Creek Dam B-121 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
West Fork Big Creek Dam B-121, located in Harrison, Missouri, was completed in 1994 by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the West Fork Big Creek.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 26.8 feet with a hydraulic height of 26 feet and a structural height of 28 feet. It has a length of 430 feet and a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet, serving as a vital structure in the area's water resource management.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, West Fork Big Creek Dam B-121 is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 200 cubic feet per second through its uncontrolled spillway. Despite not being state-regulated or inspected, the dam is considered to be in a not rated condition assessment and does not have a current emergency action plan in place. However, with its critical role in flood risk reduction and its location in a high drainage area of 198.4 square miles, continued monitoring and maintenance of this structure are essential for the safety and protection of the surrounding community.
Owned by the local government, West Fork Big Creek Dam B-121 serves as a key element in the water resource infrastructure of the region. With its efficient design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service and its contribution to reducing flood risks, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating climate-related challenges in the area. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is imperative to recognize the significance of structures like West Fork Big Creek Dam B-121 in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events and ensuring the resilience of water resources in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
430 |
Dam Height |
26.8 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEST FORK BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
198.4 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
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-121