Cherokee Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cherokee Lake Dam, located in Normangee, Texas, is a local government-owned structure primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1964, this Earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and stretches 900 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 190 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.

Despite being classified as having a fair condition assessment, Cherokee Lake Dam has a moderate risk level. The spillway, with a width of 15 feet, is uncontrolled and has the capacity to discharge up to 307 cubic feet per second. The dam has one uncontrolled outlet gate and was last modified in 2008 for structural enhancements. In the event of an emergency, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are not clearly defined, indicating a potential area for improvement.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts may be drawn to Cherokee Lake Dam for its recreational opportunities and scenic surroundings. With its location on Running Creek and close proximity to the Galveston District, the dam serves as a vital resource for the local community while also posing a moderate risk that requires ongoing monitoring and management to ensure public safety and environmental protection.

Years Modified

2008 - Structural

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

RUNNING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

0.26

Nid Storage

190

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.