West Fork Big Creek Dam P- 15 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

West Fork Big Creek Dam P-15, located in Harrison, Missouri, was completed in 2001 and is owned by the local government.


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Summary

Designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a primary purpose of flood risk reduction. With a storage capacity of 111 acre-feet and a drainage area of 170 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

The dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a key infrastructure for mitigating flood risks in the Polecat-OS river basin. With a spillway width of 30 feet and uncontrolled outlet gates, West Fork Big Creek Dam P-15 is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 268 cubic feet per second. While the dam's condition is not rated, it serves as a vital structure for protecting downstream communities from potential flooding events.

Despite not being regulated by the state, West Fork Big Creek Dam P-15 plays a critical role in the local water management system. With its strategic location in S17, T63N, R27W and its efficient design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction measures in the region. Its presence ensures the safety and resilience of the surrounding area against potential water-related emergencies.

Year Completed

2001

Dam Length

570

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

POLECAT-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

170

Nid Storage

111

Structural Height

32

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

32
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.