Patterson Creek No.48 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Patterson Creek No.48, also known as Pursley Run, is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Burlington, West Virginia.
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Summary
Built in 1974 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 71 feet and has a hydraulic height of 67 feet, providing storage for up to 652 acre-feet of water. With a drainage area of 1.67 square miles and a surface area of 4 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks in the region.
Managed by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, Patterson Creek No.48 is classified as a high hazard potential dam with a satisfactory condition assessment. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates ensure water is safely discharged during heavy rainfall events. Regular inspections, with a frequency of every two years, are conducted to ensure the dam's structural integrity and overall safety. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose of flood risk reduction effectively, safeguarding the community and surrounding areas from potential water-related disasters.
With Congressman David B. McKinley representing the area, Patterson Creek No.48 stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in West Virginia. As a key component of the Pittsburgh District, the dam's design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service reflects a commitment to sustainable infrastructure that balances flood protection needs with environmental considerations. As climate change impacts continue to pose challenges for water resources, structures like Patterson Creek No.48 play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of local communities in the face of evolving weather patterns and increasing water-related risks.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
680 |
Dam Height |
71 |
River Or Stream |
PURSLEY RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
67 |
Drainage Area |
1.67 |
Nid Storage |
652 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
71 |
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.48