Cherokee Falls Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Cherokee Falls, located in Cherokee, South Carolina, is a captivating hydroelectric structure built in 1826 with a primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a hydraulic height of 20 feet, utilizing a masonry design with a multi-arch core type resting on a rock foundation. With a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1490 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Cherokee Falls poses a significant hazard potential due to its age and condition assessment not being available. Despite this, the dam has a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 222,000 cubic feet per second, providing essential water management capabilities for the surrounding area. The risk assessment for Cherokee Falls is classified as very high, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this vital water resource infrastructure.

With its historical significance and essential role in hydroelectric power generation, Cherokee Falls stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change continues to impact water availability and energy production, structures like Cherokee Falls highlight the importance of sustainable water resource management practices to meet the needs of both current and future generations.

Year Completed

1826

Dam Length

1850

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Broad River

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

35

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

1490

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

20
       
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.