Paddys Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Paddys Creek Dam, located in Morganton, North Carolina, plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along the Catawba River.


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Summary

Built in 1919, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 160 feet, with a hydraulic height of 136 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 265,182 acre-feet, serving as a vital water resource for the region. With a surface area of 6,000 acres and a drainage area of 243,200 acres, Paddys Creek Dam is a key infrastructure in managing water flow and ensuring the safety of nearby communities.

Despite its age, Paddys Creek Dam remains a critical piece of infrastructure with high hazard potential. While the dam's condition has not been officially rated, regular inspections are conducted to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are currently pending updates, highlighting the ongoing efforts to maintain the integrity and security of this vital water management structure. As a key component in the region's water resource and climate resilience efforts, Paddys Creek Dam stands as a symbol of proactive flood risk reduction and disaster preparedness in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

800

River Or Stream

Catawba River

Surface Area

6000

Hydraulic Height

136

Drainage Area

243200

Nid Storage

265182

Structural Height

160

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

160
       
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.