West Fork Big Creek Dam L- 51 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
West Fork Big Creek Dam L-51, located in Harrison, Missouri, serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the Little Creek.
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Summary
Built in 2008 by the USDA NRCS, this private earth dam stands at 34.8 feet high and spans 320 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 94.4 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 266 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is considered to be in very high risk due to its critical function in flood risk reduction. The controlled spillway with a width of 40 feet ensures proper water management during high-flow events. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it is important for stakeholders to stay updated on its maintenance and inspection schedules to ensure continued effectiveness in flood control. Overall, West Fork Big Creek Dam L-51 stands as a testament to the importance of effective water resource management in mitigating the impacts of climate change on local communities.
Year Completed |
2008 |
Dam Length |
320 |
Dam Height |
34.8 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
29 |
Hydraulic Height |
34.8 |
Drainage Area |
2197 |
Nid Storage |
94.4 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
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- 51