Chatuge Dam
Key Takeaway
Chatuge Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1942 and is 84 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 144 ft (taller than 86.4% in NC) |
| Dam Length | 2,850 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 285.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 226.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6,700 acres |
| Drainage Area | 189 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 88,200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1942 (84 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1986 |
| NID ID | NC00391 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
TVA
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Chatuge Dam - Saddle Dam No. 2
Clay, NC
High Hazard 20 ftChatuge Dam - Saddle Dam No. 1
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High Hazard 12 ftChatuge Dam - Saddle Dam No. 3
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High Hazard 30 ftMountain Harbour Dam
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Low HazardPhillips Pond Dam
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Significant HazardCabe Pond Dam
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Significant HazardTusquittee Landing Dam #1
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High HazardTrout Farm Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 41 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Chatuge Dam?
Chatuge Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Chatuge Dam?
Chatuge Dam is owned by TVA (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Chatuge Dam built?
Chatuge Dam was completed in 1942, making it 84 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Chatuge Dam?
Chatuge Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation, Hydroelectric, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Chatuge Dam?
Chatuge Dam has a dam height of 144 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Chatuge Dam last inspected?
Chatuge Dam was last inspected on July 20, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.