West Fork Big Creek Dam B-118 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

West Fork Big Creek Dam B-118, located in Harrison County, Missouri, was completed in 1994 by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 29.3 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the West Fork Big Creek. With a storage capacity of 106 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been rated for its condition, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 292 cubic feet per second. Although it has not been inspected since its completion in 1994, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures have not been updated or implemented. With a surface area of 5 acres and a drainage area of 160 square miles, West Fork Big Creek Dam B-118 is a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and increase the frequency of extreme weather events, the importance of maintaining and assessing the condition of dams like B-118 becomes even more critical.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significant role that dams such as West Fork Big Creek Dam B-118 play in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks. By staying informed about the condition and maintenance of these vital structures, we can ensure the safety and resilience of our communities in the face of changing climatic conditions. Monitoring and supporting the upkeep of dams like B-118 is essential for protecting the environment, safeguarding water resources, and enhancing overall climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

29.3

River Or Stream

TR-WEST FORK BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

160

Nid Storage

106

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.