Cherokee Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Andrews Lake Dam Timberlake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Cherokee Lake Dam is a vital structure located in Thomasville, Georgia, along Olive Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1950, this earth dam with a buttress core stands at 12.4 feet high and spans 850 feet in length, offering recreational opportunities in the area. The dam has a storage capacity of 141 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 42 acre-feet and a surface area of 14 acres.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Cherokee Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in July 2019. The dam's condition is currently not rated, but it meets moderate risk assessment guidelines, indicating a level 3 risk. While the dam is not regulated by the state, it is inspected periodically to ensure its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding community.
With its picturesque location and important role in providing recreational opportunities, Cherokee Lake Dam serves as a notable landmark in the region. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the dam's significance in managing water levels and offering a serene environment for outdoor activities in Thomasville.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
850 |
Dam Height |
12.4 |
River Or Stream |
Olive Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
11.2 |
Nid Storage |
141 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Cherokee Lake Dam