Patterson Creek #50 Dam
Key Takeaway
Patterson Creek #50 Dam is classified as high hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 1990 and is 36 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 73 ft (taller than 74.7% in WV) |
| Dam Length | 840 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 5.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 126 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 21 acres |
| Drainage Area | 11 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 46,800 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1990 (36 years old) |
| NID ID | WV05730 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
POTOMAC VALLEY SCD
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Patterson Creek No.44
Mineral, WV
High Hazard 34 ftPatterson Creek No.45
Mineral, WV
High Hazard 42 ftPatterson Creek No.46
Mineral, WV
High Hazard 67 ftPatterson Creek No.32
Mineral, WV
High Hazard 65 ftMarkwood Cedar Lake Dam
Mineral, WV
Low Hazard 34 ftLakewood Dam
Mineral, WV
High Hazard 74 ftPatterson Creek No.38
Mineral, WV
Significant Hazard 51 ftPatterson Creek No.37
Mineral, WV
High Hazard 47 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Patterson Creek #50 Dam?
Patterson Creek #50 Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Patterson Creek #50 Dam?
Patterson Creek #50 Dam is owned by POTOMAC VALLEY SCD (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Patterson Creek #50 Dam built?
Patterson Creek #50 Dam was completed in 1990, making it 36 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 Creek #50 Dam?
Patterson Creek #50 Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Patterson Creek #50 Dam?
Patterson Creek #50 Dam has a dam height of 73 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 Creek #50 Dam last inspected?
Patterson Creek #50 Dam was last inspected on April 12, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.