West Fork Big Creek Dam B- 74 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

West Fork Big Creek Dam B-74, also known as Site B-74, is a local government-owned earth dam located in Harrison County, Missouri.


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Summary

Designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 2006, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the West Fork Big Creek. Standing at a structural height of 37 feet and a hydraulic height of 32 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 44.9 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 13 acres.

With a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, West Fork Big Creek Dam B-74 is a crucial infrastructure for managing flood risks in the area. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 20 feet and has no outlet gates or associated structures. While it has not been rated for its current condition, the dam remains an integral part of the flood protection system for the region. The dam is not regulated or inspected by the state, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance by the local government.

Located in the Rock Island District, West Fork Big Creek Dam B-74 plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events. With its strategic design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in Missouri. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of infrastructure like West Fork Big Creek Dam B-74 in safeguarding communities and natural ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

2006

Dam Length

290

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

WEST FORK BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

125

Nid Storage

44.9

Structural Height

37

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

37
       
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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.