West Fork Big Creek Dam B-157 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
West Fork Big Creek Dam B-157, located in Pattonburg, Missouri, was completed in 1998 by the USDA NRCS with 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 21 feet and has a hydraulic height of 19 feet, with a total structural height of 24 feet and a length of 540 feet. It has a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 45 acres, serving a drainage area of 660 acres.
Despite being classified with a low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. It is primarily constructed with stone core types and soil foundations, featuring an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet. The dam is not currently regulated or inspected by the state, with no enforcement or permitting requirements in place. With no associated structures or outlet gates, the dam's condition is currently not rated, and emergency action plans and risk management measures are not specified.
Overall, West Fork Big Creek Dam B-157 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area, showcasing a moderate level of risk management. Its construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service reflects a commitment to water resource management and climate resilience. As a private dam owned entity, it provides essential flood protection for the local community while maintaining a low hazard potential.
Year Completed |
1998 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
WEST FORK BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
45 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
660 |
Nid Storage |
57 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
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-157