Big Creek-Hurricane Creek B- 72 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Big Creek-Hurricane Creek B-72 is a vital earth dam located on Big Creek in Livingston, Missouri, completed in 1994 by the USDA NRCS.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This local government-owned structure serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction, with a dam height of 21 feet and a hydraulic height of 19 feet. The dam spans 536 feet in length and has a maximum storage capacity of 96 acre-feet, providing critical protection to the surrounding area against potential flooding events.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Big Creek-Hurricane Creek B-72 has not been inspected since November 2000, highlighting the need for regular monitoring and maintenance. With a drainage area of 249.6 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and ensuring the safety of nearby communities. The structure's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 20 feet, further enhances its flood control capabilities, although the absence of outlet gates raises questions about its operational flexibility in times of high water levels.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the significance of structures like Big Creek-Hurricane Creek B-72 in safeguarding our communities from the impacts of extreme weather events. By staying informed about the condition and functionality of such dams, we can work towards ensuring their continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risks and protecting our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

536

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.5

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

249.6

Nid Storage

96

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.