Cherokee Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cherokee Dam, also known as Cherokee Lake, is a Federal-owned structure located in Strawberry Plains, Tennessee.


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Summary

Built by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) in 1941, this concrete dam stands at a height of 122 feet and serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, navigation, recreation, and water supply. With a maximum storage capacity of 1,699,431 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 1,421,811 acre-feet, Cherokee Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Situated on the Holston River, Cherokee Dam spans 6,760 feet in length and has a spillway width of 360 feet. The dam underwent modifications in 2015 to enhance its seismic and structural integrity. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Cherokee Dam has not had its condition assessed recently. The dam's risk assessment indicates a very high risk level (1), emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and management to ensure the safety and resilience of this critical infrastructure.

As part of the Tennessee Valley Authority's extensive network of dams and reservoirs, Cherokee Dam not only helps mitigate flood risks but also supports various recreational activities and provides vital water resources for the surrounding communities. With its strategic location and multifaceted functions, Cherokee Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management, climate adaptation, and infrastructure development in the region.

Years Modified

2015 - Seismic, 2015 - Structural

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

6760

Dam Height

122

River Or Stream

HOLSTON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

29560

Hydraulic Height

168

Drainage Area

3428

Nid Storage

1699431

Structural Height

175

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

175
       
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.