Paddy Creek Embankment Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Paddy Creek Embankment, located in Burke County, North Carolina, is a significant hydroelectric structure completed in 1919 by the Western Power Company.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 165 feet and has a length of 1610 feet, with a storage capacity of 288,800 acre-feet. Situated on Paddy Creek, the primary purpose of this dam is hydroelectric power generation, making it a crucial component of the region's energy infrastructure.

Despite its age, Paddy Creek Embankment remains a vital asset for the community, with a high hazard potential due to its structural integrity and the potential risk it poses. While the condition assessment is currently not available, it is subject to regular inspections by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards. With its impressive size and historical significance, this dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

As a key feature in the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Paddy Creek Embankment serves as a symbol of the region's commitment to sustainable energy generation and water resource management. With its storied history and continued operational relevance, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and investing in critical infrastructure to meet the challenges of a changing climate and growing energy demands.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

1610

Dam Height

165

River Or Stream

Paddy Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6510

Hydraulic Height

165

Nid Storage

288800

Structural Height

165

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

165
       
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.