Patterson Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Patterson Lake Dam, located in Winthrop, Washington, was completed in 1924 and serves as a vital water supply source for the surrounding area.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Managed by the Washington Dept of Ecology, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 32 feet and has a storage capacity of 4100 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 2500 acre-feet. The dam also supports irrigation and recreation activities, making it a multifunctional asset for the community.

Despite its age, Patterson Lake Dam is deemed to be in fair condition with a high hazard potential, indicating the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam is situated on Rader Creek and has a drainage area of 6.03 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 260 cubic feet per second. With its stone core and rock-and-soil foundations, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, highlighting its importance in the face of changing climate patterns.

As a key infrastructure for water management in Okanogan County, Patterson Lake Dam's presence underscores the interconnectedness of water resources and climate resilience. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, the dam represents a critical piece of the region's water supply infrastructure, showcasing the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

260

River Or Stream

Rader Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

150

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

6.03

Nid Storage

4100

Structural Height

32

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.