Cherokee Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cherokee Lake Dam, located in Columbus, Georgia, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 20.4 feet and has a hydraulic height of 19 feet. With a storage capacity of 199.5 acre-feet, the dam creates a beautiful lake with a surface area of 14 acres, providing a scenic spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Cherokee Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is rated as not assessed in terms of condition. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, making it a safe and reliable structure for the surrounding community. While the dam has not been inspected since April 2018, it is still considered to be in moderate risk according to the latest assessment.

Overall, Cherokee Lake Dam serves as a vital part of the local landscape, offering recreational opportunities and contributing to the water resources of the area. With its picturesque setting and moderate risk assessment, this dam is worth exploring for those interested in water management and climate conservation efforts in Georgia.

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

20.4

River Or Stream

Name unknown

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

560

Nid Storage

199.5

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.