The Ocoee No.
Wind
Humidity
3 Dam, also known as Ocoee No.3 Lake, is a captivating structure located in Polk, Tennessee, along the Ocoee River. Owned and operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this concrete gravity dam stands tall at 83 feet, with a structural height of 110 feet. Completed in 1942, it serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction while also contributing to hydroelectric power generation and recreational activities in the area.
With a maximum storage capacity of 7,932 acre-feet and a normal storage of 3,966 acre-feet, the Ocoee No. 3 Dam covers a surface area of 600 acres and has a drainage area of 492 square miles. The dam boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 260 feet and Tainter outlet gates for efficient water release. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is ranked as very high, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures in place by the TVA.
Overall, the Ocoee No. 3 Dam is not only a key infrastructure for flood control and water resource management but also plays a significant role in providing renewable energy and recreational opportunities for the surrounding community. As a symbol of resilience and innovation, this concrete marvel stands as a testament to the TVA's commitment to environmental stewardship and public safety in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1942 |
Dam Length |
612 |
Dam Height |
83 |
River Or Stream |
OCOEE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
600 |
Hydraulic Height |
78 |
Drainage Area |
492 |
Nid Storage |
7932 |
Structural Height |
110 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
110 |
Ocoee River At Copperhill
|
301cfs |
Mill Creek Near Crandall
|
11cfs |
Toccoa River Near Dial
|
279cfs |
Oostanaula Creek Near Sanford
|
46cfs |
Hiwassee River At Charleston
|
10400cfs |
Tellico River At Tellico Plains
|
178cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Tumbling Creek Campground
|
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Tumbling Creek
|
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Thunder Rock
|
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Thunder Rock Campground
|
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Sylco Campground
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Sylco
|