Located in Burke County, North Carolina, the Paddy Creek Chute Spillway is a vital structure associated with the Linville River.
Wind
Humidity
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 |
Linville River Near Nebo
|
75cfs |
Johns River At Arneys Store
|
173cfs |
Catawba R Nr Pleasant Gardens
|
121cfs |
Jacob Fork At Ramsey
|
17cfs |
First Broad River Near Casar
|
51cfs |
South Toe River Near Celo
|
89cfs |