Apalachia Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Apalachia Dam, also known as Apalachia Lake, is a captivating structure located in Cherokee, North Carolina, along the Hiwassee River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1943 by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this concrete gravity dam stands at an impressive height of 150 feet, with a hydraulic height of 122 feet. The primary purpose of the dam is hydroelectric power generation, while also serving as a recreational area for water enthusiasts.

With a maximum storage capacity of 63,456 acre-feet and a normal storage of 55,524 acre-feet, Apalachia Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the region. The dam boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 320 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 164,000 cubic feet per second, ensuring the safety and efficiency of its operations. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected by TVA to maintain its structural integrity and ensure public safety.

Apalachia Dam stands as a testament to the ingenuity of civil engineering and the importance of harnessing water resources for sustainable energy production. Its scenic location, combined with its vital role in water management and power generation, makes it a must-visit destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to witness the intersection of nature and human innovation.

Year Completed

1943

Dam Length

1308

Dam Height

150

River Or Stream

HIWASSEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1100

Hydraulic Height

122

Drainage Area

1018

Nid Storage

63456

Structural Height

150

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

150
       
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.