West Fork Big Creek Dam B-104 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Nestled in the picturesque Harrison, Missouri, West Fork Big Creek Dam B-104 stands as a vital structure designed by the USDA NRCS to serve the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the West Fork Big Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1994, this earth dam with a height of 23.8 feet and a length of 433 feet holds a maximum storage capacity of 50.6 acre-feet, providing essential protection to the surrounding area covering a drainage area of 70 square miles.

Despite being classified with a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, suggesting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance. The spillway, with a width of 25 feet, operates on an uncontrolled basis and is crucial for managing potential overflow during periods of high water flow. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the structure's resilience and functionality in mitigating flood risks in the region underscore its significance in safeguarding the local community and environment.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricate details of West Fork Big Creek Dam B-104, its strategic location and purposeful design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service underscore the commitment to enhancing flood resilience in the region. With a surface area of 9 acres and a normal storage capacity of 13.2 acre-feet, this dam serves as a critical component of the broader flood risk reduction strategy, emphasizing the importance of proactive risk management measures to ensure the continued safety and security of the surrounding area. The collaboration between local government entities and federal agencies highlights a collective effort to address water resource challenges and promote sustainable development practices in Harrison, Missouri.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

433

Dam Height

23.8

River Or Stream

WEST FORK BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

23.8

Drainage Area

70

Nid Storage

50.6

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.