West Fork Big Creek Dam L- 38 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
West Fork Big Creek Dam L-38, located in Bethany, Missouri, was completed in 2008 and is owned by a private entity.
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Summary
The dam, designed by USDA NRCS, serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Little Creek. Standing at a height of 32 feet and a length of 510 feet, this earth dam with stone core sits on a soil foundation and has a storage capacity of 124.8 acre-feet.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is moderate (3), suggesting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet and can discharge a maximum of 317 cubic feet per second. While the dam is not regulated by the state and does not have a formal emergency action plan in place, its condition is currently not rated, highlighting the need for further assessment.
Overall, West Fork Big Creek Dam L-38 plays a crucial role in managing flood risks in the region and provides valuable storage capacity for water resources. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, the importance of maintaining and ensuring the safety of such infrastructure will be essential for protecting both the environment and surrounding communities.
Year Completed |
2008 |
Dam Length |
510 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Drainage Area |
350 |
Nid Storage |
124.8 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
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 L- 38