Patterson Creek No.32 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Patterson Creek No.32 is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Mineral, West Virginia.


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Summary

Built in 1983 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 65 feet and has a drainage area of 2204 acres. With a normal storage capacity of 30.4 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 21920 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Owned by the local government and regulated by the West Virginia Division of Water and Waste Management, Patterson Creek No.32 has a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition according to a 2014 assessment. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose effectively. The structure's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality in safeguarding the community from flood hazards.

With Congressman David B. McKinley representing the area, Patterson Creek No.32 stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts. As a key component of the Pittsburgh District's infrastructure, this dam not only helps mitigate flood risks but also contributes to the overall environmental and socio-economic well-being of the region. By staying proactive in its maintenance and emergency preparedness measures, Patterson Creek No.32 remains a critical asset in the protection of lives and property against the unpredictable forces of nature.

Year Completed

1983

Dam Length

667

Dam Height

65

River Or Stream

PATTERSON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

65

Hydraulic Height

62

Drainage Area

2204

Nid Storage

1364

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

65
       
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.