Paddy Creek Chute Spillway Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Burke County, North Carolina, the Paddy Creek Chute Spillway is a vital structure associated with the Linville River.


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Summary

Built in 1919, this concrete dam stands at a height of 0.5 feet and has a length of 150 feet. The primary purpose of this hydroelectric facility is to generate power, with a normal storage capacity of 288,800 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 92,866 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age, the Paddy Creek Chute Spillway is inspected regularly by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to ensure its operational safety. Classified as having a high hazard potential, this structure has a moderate risk assessment rating. Emergency action plans have been prepared and updated, with a last revision date in December 2020. While the condition assessment is currently listed as not available, the spillway's importance for water resource management and climate adaptation in the region cannot be understated.

In the event of a breach or emergency, the Paddy Creek Chute Spillway plays a critical role in managing floodwaters and protecting downstream communities. With a capacity to release excess water through its uncontrolled spillway, this structure serves as a key component of the region's infrastructure for water resource management. As climate change impacts continue to pose challenges, the maintenance and monitoring of facilities like the Paddy Creek Chute Spillway become increasingly important for ensuring the resilience of water systems in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

0.5

River Or Stream

Linville River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

6510

Hydraulic Height

0.5

Nid Storage

288800

Structural Height

0.5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

1
       
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.