Patterson

Offstream· Alameda, California· Built 1962· Earth· 100 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Patterson is classified as significant hazard in California. It was completed in 1962 and is 64 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 100 ft (taller than 82.2% in CA)
Dam Length1,306 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage46 acre-ft
Surface Area2 acres
Year Completed1962 (64 years old)
NID IDCA00895

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: October 18, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR, Division of Safety of Dams

Ownership

Alameda County Water District

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Patterson?

Patterson is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Patterson?

Patterson is owned by Alameda County Water District (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Patterson built?

Patterson was completed in 1962, making it 64 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Patterson?

Patterson serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Patterson?

Patterson has a dam height of 100 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Patterson last inspected?

Patterson was last inspected on October 18, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.