West Fork Big Creek Dam P- 21 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
West Fork Big Creek Dam P- 21, located in Bridgeport, Missouri, was completed in 2002 by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Polecat River.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet with a structural height of 32 feet and a length of 515 feet, providing a normal storage capacity of 31 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 122 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, this dam is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 257 cubic feet per second through an uncontrolled spillway.
Despite being a local government-owned structure, West Fork Big Creek Dam P- 21 is not state-regulated or inspected, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance by the primary owner. The dam's design features stone core types and soil foundations, making it a crucial asset for flood risk mitigation in the area. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam's emergency action plan readiness and risk management measures are yet to be fully evaluated. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change will find this dam an intriguing case study for its construction, operation, and potential impact on the surrounding environment.
Year Completed |
2002 |
Dam Length |
515 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
POLECAT |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Drainage Area |
456 |
Nid Storage |
122 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
East Fork Big Creek Near Bethany
|
4cfs |
Thompson River At Trenton
|
140cfs |
Grand River Near Gallatin
|
50cfs |
Thompson River At Davis City
|
22cfs |
Medicine Creek Near Laredo
|
5cfs |
Grand River At Chillicothe
|
361cfs |
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 P- 21