Cherokee Reservoir Report
Nearby: Indian Rock Davy Crockett
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Cherokee is a privately owned dam located in Bellview, Cumberland, Tennessee, along the Little Laurel Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1967, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 30.9 feet and has a hydraulic height of 29 feet. With a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.5 acres, Cherokee plays a vital role in regulating water flow and providing water resources for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Cherokee is subject to regular inspections, with the most recent assessment in May 2019 rating its condition as satisfactory and its hazard potential as low. Despite its age, this dam has undergone minimal modifications over the years and remains in good standing. In the event of an emergency, the dam is equipped with a spillway type of Uncontrolled, ensuring proper water release during peak flow periods. Overall, Cherokee presents a moderate risk level, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety and functionality of this essential water infrastructure.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize the significance of dams like Cherokee in maintaining water security and mitigating flood risks in the region. By supporting state-regulated programs and initiatives, such as the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, we can ensure the continued operation and safety of critical infrastructure like Cherokee for the benefit of both the environment and local communities. With proper maintenance and risk management practices, Cherokee stands as a testament to the resilience of our water resource systems in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
170 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE LAUREL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Drainage Area |
0.12 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Structural Height |
30.9 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Cherokee
Mill Site To Center Bridge