East Fork Big Creek Dam E- 78 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
East Fork Big Creek Dam E-78, located in Harrison County, Missouri, serves as a critical infrastructure for flood risk reduction along the East Fork Big Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1998 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and spans 530 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 52 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events, with a moderate risk assessment rating.
Managed by a private entity, East Fork Big Creek Dam E-78 does not fall under state jurisdiction or regulation, highlighting the importance of private cooperation in maintaining water resource infrastructure. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with an uncontrolled spillway type and a maximum discharge capacity of 165 cubic feet per second. While the dam is not currently rated for its condition, it serves as a key asset in the region's water resource management strategy.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, East Fork Big Creek Dam E-78 offers a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure, environmental risk, and private ownership. With its strategic location and design features, this dam exemplifies the importance of proactive flood mitigation measures in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the impacts of extreme weather events. As stakeholders continue to monitor and assess the dam's performance, it stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance water resource management with the realities of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1998 |
Dam Length |
530 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
EAST FORK BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
38.4 |
Nid Storage |
52 |
Structural Height |
26 |
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.
East Fork Big Creek Dam E- 78