Patterson Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Patterson is a privately owned recreational dam located on Timbergut Creek in Perryville, Alabama.


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Summary

Completed in 1960, the earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 24 feet and a structural height of 28 feet, with a length of 530 feet. With a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet, the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Managed by the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Patterson has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment. Despite not being regulated or inspected by the state, the dam's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk assessment are not documented. With its tranquil surroundings and limited risk, Patterson provides a unique opportunity for recreation while also serving as a point of interest for those interested in water resource management and climate-related topics in the Tallapoosa region of Alabama.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Patterson offers a glimpse into the world of private recreational dams in Alabama. With its historical significance dating back to 1960 and its association with Timbergut Creek, the dam provides a setting for outdoor activities while also raising questions about regulatory oversight and emergency preparedness. As a privately owned structure with limited state involvement, Patterson represents a balance between recreation and environmental considerations, making it an intriguing case study for those interested in the intersection of water management and climate issues.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

530

River Or Stream

TIMBERGUT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

140

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.