West Fork Big Creek Dam P- 16 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 4, 2026

West Fork Big Creek Dam P-16, located in Bridgeport, Missouri, was completed in 2004 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the Polecat River.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a hydraulic height of 28 feet, with a total structural height of 32 feet. The dam spans a length of 490 feet and has a storage capacity of 133 acre-feet, providing vital protection for the surrounding area.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, West Fork Big Creek Dam P-16 is an essential piece of infrastructure for the local government in Harrison County. Despite not being state-regulated or permitted, the dam plays a significant role in managing the water resources in the region, with a normal storage capacity of 36.6 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 283.9 cfs. The uncontrolled spillway, outlet gates, and stone core foundation contribute to the dam's effectiveness in flood risk reduction.

Although the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, regular inspections are conducted to ensure its stability and functionality. With its strategic location and design, West Fork Big Creek Dam P-16 continues to play a vital role in safeguarding the community against potential flooding events, highlighting the importance of proper water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Year Completed

2004

Dam Length

490

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

POLECAT

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

840

Nid Storage

133

Structural Height

32

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.