Cherokee Lakes Dam, located in Wayne County, Georgia, was completed in 1956 and serves primarily for recreational purposes. The dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a length of 1390 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 600 acre-feet. The dam is classified as an Earth dam with a Buttress core type and is currently rated as having a low hazard potential.
Despite being privately owned, Cherokee Lakes Dam is subject to state jurisdiction and inspections. The dam has not been modified in recent years and has an uncontrolled spillway system. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating a level 3 risk, although specific risk management measures are not detailed in the available data. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in April 2016, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 5 years.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cherokee Lakes Dam offers a fascinating case study in dam infrastructure and risk assessment. Its construction by designer W. E. BLAND and its location in a recreational area highlight the intersection of human-made structures with natural environments. The dam's moderate risk level emphasizes the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of water resources in the region.