Cheoah Valley Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cheoah Valley Dam, also known as Shuler Lake, is a privately owned dam located in Swain, North Carolina, near the city of Chilhowee.


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Summary

Completed in 1956, this earth-type dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, providing a serene spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. With a hydraulic height of 46 feet and a structural height of 48 feet, the dam boasts a maximum storage capacity of 96 acre-feet and a normal storage of 84 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 5 acres.

Despite its recreational charm, Cheoah Valley Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its fair condition assessment as of January 2017. The dam is regulated by various state agencies including the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures. While the dam has not undergone major modifications over the years, its emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures remain unclear. With a distance of 18 miles from the Alken Branch river, the dam plays a crucial role in water management within the Nashville District.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking a picturesque retreat, Cheoah Valley Dam offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. While its high hazard potential may raise concerns, the dam's state-regulated status and fair condition assessment reflect ongoing efforts to ensure safety and compliance. With its tranquil surroundings and potential for outdoor activities, Cheoah Valley Dam stands as a testament to the delicate balance between water management and environmental conservation in the heart of North Carolina's scenic landscape.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

154

River Or Stream

Alken Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

46

Nid Storage

96

Structural Height

48

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

48
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.