West Fork Big Creek Dam S- 32 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

West Fork Big Creek Dam S- 32, located in Harrison, Missouri, was completed in 2005 by the USDA NRCS with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the West Fork Big Creek.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a structural height of 32 feet and has a hydraulic height of 27 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 64.6 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 16.3 acre-feet over a surface area of 3 acres. With a drainage area of 145 square miles, the dam has a maximum discharge rate of 155.2 cubic feet per second and is classified as having a low hazard potential.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet and is constructed with a stone core and soil foundation. While it is not regulated by the state of Missouri, the dam falls under the jurisdiction of the Rock Island District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. The risk assessment for West Fork Big Creek Dam S- 32 indicates a moderate risk level, with a condition assessment of "Not Rated" and no specific emergency action plan in place. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam serves as a crucial infrastructure for flood risk reduction in the area.

Overall, West Fork Big Creek Dam S- 32 plays a vital role in protecting the local community from potential flooding events along the West Fork Big Creek. Its construction and design by the USDA NRCS demonstrate a commitment to water resource management and climate resilience in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the details of this dam's specifications and purpose can help us appreciate the importance of infrastructure like West Fork Big Creek Dam S- 32 in safeguarding our environment and communities from natural disasters.

Year Completed

2005

Dam Length

540

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

WEST FORK BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

145

Nid Storage

64.6

Structural Height

32

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.