Chatuge Dam Reservoir Report

Reservoir Report

North Carolina

Nearby: Chatuge Dam - Saddle Dam No. 2 Chatuge Dam - Saddle Dam No. 1

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chatuge Dam, also known as Chatuge Lake, is a federal-owned structure located in Hayesville, North Carolina, along the Hiwassee River.

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Summary

Built in 1942 by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), the dam stands at a height of 144 feet and has a hydraulic height of 132 feet, serving primarily for flood risk reduction. With a normal storage capacity of 226,600 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 285,552 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 6,700 acres and has a drainage area of 189 square miles.

The dam boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 325 feet and features vertical lift outlet gates for water release. Despite a high hazard potential, the condition assessment of Chatuge Dam is not available, indicating a need for further inspection. The dam area offers recreational opportunities and serves as a water supply source, in addition to its flood risk reduction and hydroelectric functions. Managed by the TVA, Chatuge Dam stands as a vital structure in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Overall, Chatuge Dam plays a crucial role in the Tennessee Valley Authority's operations, with a focus on flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. Its strategic location and design make it a key contributor to water resource management in the area. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam continues to be monitored and inspected regularly to ensure public safety and the efficient functioning of its multiple purposes. As a significant landmark along the Hiwassee River, Chatuge Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate adaptation strategies in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed	1942
Dam Length	2850
Dam Height	144
River Or Stream	HIWASSEE RIVER
Primary Dam Type	Earth
Surface Area	6700
Hydraulic Height	132
Drainage Area	189
Nid Storage	285552
Structural Height	150
Outlet Gates	Vertical Lift
Hazard Potential	High
Foundations	Soil
Nid Height	150

Explore Interactive Map

CHATUGE DAM

Reservoir Report • Water Levels • Weather Forecast

December 5, 2025

Year_Completed	1942
Dam_Length	2850
Dam_Height	144
River_Or_Stream	HIWASSEE RIVER
Primary_Dam_Type	Earth
Surface_Area	6700
Hydraulic_Height	132
Drainage_Area	189
Nid_Storage	285552
Structural_Height	150
Outlet_Gates	Vertical Lift
Hazard_Potential	High
Foundations	Soil
Nid_Height	150

Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Nearby Streamflow Levels

Nantahala River Near Rainbow Springs 200.0cfs	200cfs
Valley River At Tomotla 272.0cfs	272cfs
Nottely River Near Blairsville 86.9cfs	87cfs
Tallulah River Near Clayton 135.0cfs	135cfs
Chattahoochee River At Helen 69.3cfs	69cfs
Cartoogechaye Creek Near Franklin 261cfs	261cfs

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.