West Fork Big Creek Dam L- 46b Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
West Fork Big Creek Dam L- 46b, located in Harrison, Missouri, is a privately owned earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Completed in 2008, the dam stands at a height of 31.9 feet and has a storage capacity of 143.9 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 170 square miles and a maximum discharge of 366 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and reducing flood hazards in the area.
The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled and 60 feet wide, helps regulate water levels during periods of high flow. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's condition has not been officially rated. The surrounding area, including the city of Bethany, benefits from the dam's presence, as it helps protect against potential flood damage and ensures the safety of local residents. As a key component of water resource management in the region, West Fork Big Creek Dam L- 46b serves as a vital infrastructure for climate resilience and disaster prevention.
With its strategic location on TR-Little Creek and under the jurisdiction of the Rock Island District, West Fork Big Creek Dam L- 46b exemplifies the importance of sustainable water resource management and the collaborative efforts of federal agencies like the Natural Resources Conservation Service. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and increase the frequency of extreme events, dams like L- 46b play a crucial role in safeguarding communities and preserving water resources for future generations. By adhering to strict regulatory guidelines and conducting regular inspections, the dam ensures its efficacy in flood risk reduction and underscores the significance of proactive measures in mitigating climate-related threats.
Year Completed |
2008 |
Dam Length |
470 |
Dam Height |
31.9 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
31.9 |
Drainage Area |
170 |
Nid Storage |
143.9 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
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- 46b