West Fork Big Creek Dam P- 44 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

West Fork Big Creek Dam P-44, located in Harrison, Missouri, was completed in 2004 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure on the Polecat River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet with a total length of 440 feet, providing a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and a normal storage of 26 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, indicating the need for ongoing risk management measures.

With its uncontrolled spillway and stone core structure, West Fork Big Creek Dam P-44 plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. The dam's location in the Rock Island District underlines its significance in the region's water resource management. While the dam has not been rated for condition assessment, it remains a key asset in the community's resilience against natural disasters, with a designated emergency action plan likely in place to address any potential risks.

Managed by the local government, this dam exemplifies the collaborative effort between state and federal agencies in safeguarding the community's well-being. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like West Fork Big Creek Dam P-44 highlight the importance of proactive flood risk reduction strategies in mitigating potential threats and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the region's water infrastructure.

Year Completed

2004

Dam Length

440

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

POLECAT

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

190

Nid Storage

100

Structural Height

36

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

36
       
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.