Wells Lake Dam Lower, located in Cherokee, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program.
Wind
Humidity
This earth dam, with a hydraulic height of 23.5 feet and a structural height of 30 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes along the Gold Branch stream. The dam has a storage capacity of 600 acre-feet and a surface area of 50 acres, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities in the area.
Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Wells Lake Dam Lower undergoes regular inspections every five years to ensure its safety and integrity. The last inspection in January 2017 confirmed its overall stability, although no specific modifications or enhancements have been recorded since its completion. With a maximum discharge capacity of 340 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the region.
As a key component of the local recreational landscape, Wells Lake Dam Lower remains a significant feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area. Its strategic location along the Gold Branch stream, combined with its impressive storage capacity and recreational opportunities, highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring such structures to ensure the safety and well-being of the surrounding environment and community.
Dam Length |
310 |
River Or Stream |
Gold Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
50 |
Hydraulic Height |
23.5 |
Nid Storage |
600 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
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|
268cfs |
Nottely River Near Blairsville
|
115cfs |
Ocoee River At Copperhill
|
301cfs |
Toccoa River Near Dial
|
279cfs |
Tellico River At Tellico Plains
|
178cfs |
Nantahala River Near Rainbow Springs
|
229cfs |