Patterson Creek No.36 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Patterson Creek No.36 is a crucial flood risk reduction structure located in Fort Ashby, West Virginia.
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Summary
Owned by the local government and designed by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet, with a hydraulic height of 34 feet. Completed in 1972, it serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Patterson Creek, with a storage capacity of 284 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.97 square miles.
The dam has a surface area of 3 acres and a length of 330 feet, with a spillway type classified as "Uncontrolled." Despite its fair condition assessment back in 2014, Patterson Creek No.36 holds a high hazard potential due to its location and purpose. The risk assessment for this structure is moderate, with ongoing risk management measures to ensure its continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risks in the area. With state regulation and inspection in place, this dam plays a vital role in safeguarding the local community from potential flooding events.
Overall, Patterson Creek No.36 serves as a critical infrastructure for flood risk reduction in Mineral County, West Virginia. With its strategic location along the Patterson Creek and proper state regulation, this earth dam continues to play a significant role in managing floodwaters and protecting the surrounding areas. As climate change and water resource management become increasingly important, structures like Patterson Creek No.36 highlight the importance of investing in resilient infrastructure to adapt to changing environmental conditions and ensure the safety of communities at risk of flooding.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
PATTERSON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
34 |
Drainage Area |
0.97 |
Nid Storage |
284 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.36