West Fork Big Creek Dam B-119 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
West Fork Big Creek Dam B-119, located in Bethany, Missouri, was completed in 2002 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at a height of 30 feet and a length of 550 feet, serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the West Fork Big Creek. With a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet and a drainage area of 170 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and mitigating potential flood hazards in the region.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have moderate risk based on a risk assessment rating of 3. The condition assessment of the dam is currently listed as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further evaluation. While the dam does not have a state jurisdiction or regulatory agency overseeing its operation, it is inspected every five years to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The presence of an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet adds an extra layer of safety in case of excessive water levels.
Overall, West Fork Big Creek Dam B-119 stands as a vital infrastructure for flood risk reduction in Harrison County, Missouri. With its strategic location and design, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding community from potential water-related disasters. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the details and functions of such dams is essential in promoting sustainable water management practices and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
2002 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
WEST FORK BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
170 |
Nid Storage |
51 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
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-119