Patterson Creek No.37 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Patterson Creek No.37 is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Fort Ashby, West Virginia.


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Summary

Built in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 47 feet and has a storage capacity of 976 acre-feet. It serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Patterson Creek, with a drainage area of 2.95 square miles.

The dam is state-regulated and maintained by the WV Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Water and Waste Management. Despite being assessed as in fair condition in 2014, it has a high hazard potential due to its location and the surrounding area. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and the structure is regularly inspected every two years to ensure its integrity and safety for the community.

Patterson Creek No.37 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region and protecting the residents of Fort Ashby. With a moderate risk assessment rating, it is essential for the local government to continue monitoring and maintaining this structure to prevent potential hazards and ensure the safety of the surrounding areas.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

610

Dam Height

47

River Or Stream

PATTERSON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

44

Drainage Area

2.95

Nid Storage

976

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

47
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.