West Fork Big Creek Dam P- 39 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
West Fork Big Creek Dam P- 39, located in Harrison, Missouri, is a crucial structure designed by the USDA NRCS to reduce flood risks in the area.
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Summary
Completed in 2004, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 122 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving as a key element in the protection of the surrounding area from potential inundation.
With a surface area of 6 acres and a drainage area of 220 square miles, West Fork Big Creek Dam P- 39 plays a significant role in managing water flow and minimizing the impact of heavy rainfall events. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 25 feet, to safely release excess water. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure its integrity and effectiveness in flood control.
Although not currently regulated or inspected by the state, West Fork Big Creek Dam P- 39 remains a critical infrastructure in the region, contributing to the overall water resource management efforts. Its strategic location on the Polecat River, in the Rock Island District, underscores its significance in safeguarding the community from potential flood hazards. As an essential component in the local government's flood risk reduction strategy, this dam serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts in climate resilience and water resource management in Missouri.
Year Completed |
2004 |
Dam Length |
580 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
POLECAT |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
220 |
Nid Storage |
122 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
East Fork Big Creek Near Bethany
|
2cfs |
Grand River Near Gallatin
|
61cfs |
Thompson River At Trenton
|
152cfs |
Thompson River At Davis City
|
22cfs |
Medicine Creek Near Laredo
|
18cfs |
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- 39