West Fork Big Creek Dam B-153 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
West Fork Big Creek Dam B-153, also known as Site B-153, is a local government-owned structure located in Bridgeport, Missouri, within Harrison County.
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Summary
Constructed in 1996 by the USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam stands at 33 feet high with a length of 550 feet, serving primarily for flood risk reduction along the TR-Big Creek. With a maximum storage capacity of 86 acre-feet and a normal storage of 22 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 8 acres and drains an area of 95 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, West Fork Big Creek Dam B-153 has not been inspected or rated for its condition. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet and does not have any outlet gates or associated structures. The dam is not regulated by the state and has not been subject to inspections or enforcement. While it serves its purpose for flood risk reduction, the lack of recent assessments and emergency action plans raises concern for its long-term reliability in mitigating potential risks associated with extreme weather events and changing climate patterns.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the West Fork Big Creek Dam B-153 presents an intriguing case study of a locally owned flood control structure with limited state oversight. Its construction and design by the USDA NRCS highlight the importance of proactive risk management and the need for regular inspections to ensure the dam's effectiveness in safeguarding the surrounding community from flooding events. As climate change continues to impact water resources and increase the frequency of extreme weather events, the resilience and maintenance of such critical infrastructure become essential for sustainable water management and disaster preparedness.
Year Completed |
1996 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
33 |
Drainage Area |
95 |
Nid Storage |
86 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
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-153