West Fork Big Creek Dam B-159 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
West Fork Big Creek Dam B-159, located in Harrison, Missouri, was completed in 1998 and serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure on the West Fork of Big Creek.
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Summary
The dam, designed by the USDA NRCS, is an earth dam with a height of 26.7 feet and a hydraulic height of 24 feet. It spans 550 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 73 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 19 acre-feet.
Despite being privately owned, the dam falls under the jurisdiction of the state of Missouri and is not regulated or inspected by state agencies. Its hazard potential is rated as low, with a moderate risk assessment score of 3. The spillway, with a width of 30 feet, is uncontrolled, and there are no outlet gates associated with the structure. Although the condition of the dam has not been officially assessed, it is currently rated as "Not Rated" for condition assessment. Overall, West Fork Big Creek Dam B-159 plays a vital role in mitigating flood risks in the region, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.
Year Completed |
1998 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
26.7 |
River Or Stream |
WEST FORK OF BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
81 |
Nid Storage |
73 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
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-159