Patterson Creek No. 3 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Patterson Creek No.
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Summary
3 Dam, also known as Thorn Run, is a key structure in flood risk reduction efforts in West Virginia. Built in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 55.5 feet and has a hydraulic height of 51.5 feet. With a storage capacity of 1007.5 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 35.2 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the Thorn Run river, which covers a drainage area of 2.7 square miles.
Located in Grant County, West Virginia, the Patterson Creek No. 3 Dam is under the jurisdiction of the state regulatory agency DWWM. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, with the last inspection conducted in August 2011. The emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in May 2014, suggesting a need for updated risk management measures and guidelines to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam. With Congressman David B. McKinley representing the area, the dam's importance in mitigating flood risks and protecting the surrounding community cannot be overstated.
Overall, Patterson Creek No. 3 Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control and water resource management in the region. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and water levels, the proper maintenance and inspection of this dam are essential to safeguarding the local population and environment. With its significant storage capacity and strategic location, the dam plays a critical role in reducing flood risks and ensuring the resilience of the Thorn Run watershed in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
55.5 |
River Or Stream |
THORN RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
51.5 |
Drainage Area |
2.7 |
Nid Storage |
1007.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
56 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Patterson Creek No. 3 Dam
Jake Hill Road Bridge To Shreve Store