West Fork Big Creek Dam B- 80 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
West Fork Big Creek Dam B-80, located in Harrison County, Missouri, is a crucial flood risk reduction structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 2006.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 24.5 feet with a structural height of 30 feet and a length of 350 feet, providing essential protection to the surrounding area along the West Fork Big Creek. With a maximum storage capacity of 62 acre-feet and a normal storage of 12.7 acre-feet, this dam plays a vital role in managing water levels during periods of high discharge, with a controlled spillway width of 20 feet.
Despite its low hazard potential, West Fork Big Creek Dam B-80 is rated as having a very high risk due to its critical function in flood risk reduction. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam has not had any inspection frequency recorded. The dam does not have any outlet gates, locks, or associated structures, highlighting its simple yet effective design. As a local government-owned structure, this dam serves as a testament to effective water resource management in the region, overseen by the Rock Island District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, West Fork Big Creek Dam B-80 presents an intriguing case study of a well-designed flood risk reduction structure in a rural setting. The dam's location, design features, and storage capacity offer valuable insights into the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events. With its key role in protecting the local community from flooding, this dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of government agencies like the USDA NRCS and the local government in safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
2006 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
24.5 |
River Or Stream |
WEST FORK BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
23 |
Hydraulic Height |
24.5 |
Drainage Area |
160 |
Nid Storage |
62 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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 B- 80