Cherokee is a privately owned dam located in Calaveras, California, specifically in the city of San Andreas. The dam was completed in 1959 and has a primary purpose of water supply for irrigation and general use. Situated on Cherokee Creek, the earth dam stands at a height of 44 feet with a hydraulic height of 37 feet, storing a maximum of 630 acre-feet of water over a surface area of 61 acres.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) for dam safety, Cherokee has been deemed to have a low hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2017. The dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in December 2019. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) currently in place, it meets state regulatory requirements for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite its simple design and construction, Cherokee plays a crucial role in providing reliable water resources for the surrounding area.

Overall, Cherokee serves as a vital component of the local water infrastructure in California, ensuring a stable water supply for agricultural and domestic purposes. With its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition, the dam exemplifies responsible water resource management practices. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance of structures like Cherokee in maintaining water security and sustainability is crucial for promoting resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.