Cherokee Dam, located in Frederick, Virginia, along the Keckley Run, is a significant earth dam with a height of 46 feet and a length of 750 feet.
Wind
Humidity
Owned by the local government, the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a storage capacity of 443 acre-feet and a surface area of 18 acres. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, ensuring state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite being labeled as having a "Significant" hazard potential, the condition assessment of Cherokee Dam is currently rated as "Not Rated." The last inspection took place in February 2015, with a frequency of one inspection per year. Emergency action plans have been prepared, with the last revision in September 2012. The dam's risk assessment, risk management measures, and inundation maps status are not specified in the available data, suggesting a need for further evaluation and documentation.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cherokee Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam safety and management. With its location in a picturesque setting and its crucial role in providing recreational opportunities, understanding the monitoring and maintenance practices of this dam can offer valuable insights into balancing human enjoyment of water resources with the need for safety and sustainability. As climate change impacts water infrastructure, including dams, ensuring the resilience and reliability of structures like Cherokee Dam becomes increasingly important for the surrounding community and ecosystem.
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
46 |
River Or Stream |
Keckley Run |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Hydraulic Height |
46 |
Drainage Area |
0.81 |
Nid Storage |
443 |
Structural Height |
46 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
46 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Hawk
|
||
Hawk Recreation Area
|
||
Hawk Campground
|