Patterson Creek No.21
Key Takeaway
Patterson Creek No.21 is classified as high hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 1984 and is 42 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 | 74 ft (taller than 75.8% in WV) |
| Dam Length | 665 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 251 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 23 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1984 (42 years old) |
| NID ID | WV05727 |
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.20
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High Hazard 61 ftPatterson Creek No.15
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High Hazard 85 ftNew Creek Dam No.9
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High Hazard 58 ftPatterson Creek No.22
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Significant Hazard 54 ftOld Keyser Reservoir
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High Hazard 25 ftNew Creek Dam No.7
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High Hazard 51 ftPatterson Creek No.47
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Significant Hazard 31 ftPatterson Creek No.48
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High Hazard 71 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Patterson Creek No.21?
Patterson Creek No.21 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 No.21?
Patterson Creek No.21 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 No.21 built?
Patterson Creek No.21 was completed in 1984, making it 42 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 No.21?
Patterson Creek No.21 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 No.21?
Patterson Creek No.21 has a dam height of 74 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 No.21 last inspected?
Patterson Creek No.21 was last inspected on April 28, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.