West Fork Big Creek Dam P- 45 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
West Fork Big Creek Dam P-45, located in Harrison, Missouri, is a key infrastructure 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 31 feet, with a structural height of 36 feet and a length of 409 feet. With a storage capacity of 79 acre-feet and a drainage area of 165 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events.
The dam's spillway, with a width of 30 feet, helps control water discharge during heavy rainfall, while the uncontrolled outlet gates ensure proper water regulation. Despite being deemed to have a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment remains moderate. The condition assessment is marked as "Not Rated," indicating the need for further evaluation. Overall, West Fork Big Creek Dam P-45 serves as a significant asset in the region's water resource management, showcasing the collaborative efforts of local government and federal agencies in safeguarding the community against flood risks.
With its strategic location on the Polecat river, the West Fork Big Creek Dam P-45 is a testament to effective flood risk reduction and water resource management practices in Missouri. As it continues to fulfill its primary purpose, the dam stands as a symbol of resilience and proactive measures in combating the challenges posed by climate change. Moving forward, ongoing inspections and risk assessments will be crucial in ensuring the structural integrity and operational efficiency of this vital infrastructure for years to come.
Year Completed |
2004 |
Dam Length |
409 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
POLECAT |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Drainage Area |
165 |
Nid Storage |
79 |
Structural Height |
36 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
36 |
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- 45