Cheoah
Key Takeaway
Cheoah is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1919 and is 107 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 214 ft (taller than 95.1% in NC) |
| Dam Length | 750 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 42.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 35.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,767 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,608 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 225,200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1919 (107 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00393 |
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
Brookfield Renewable Energy Group (ARO)
Private
Nearby Dams
Cheoah Valley Dam
Swain, NC
High HazardCalderwood
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High Hazard 214 ftSanteetlah
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High Hazard 192 ftTurkeypen
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Significant Hazard 26 ftFontana Dam
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High Hazard 455 ftRobert Mosely Dam
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Low HazardChilhowee
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High Hazard 66 ftPhillips Dam
Graham, NC
High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cheoah?
Cheoah 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 Cheoah?
Cheoah is owned by Brookfield Renewable Energy Group (ARO) (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cheoah built?
Cheoah was completed in 1919, making it 107 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 Cheoah?
Cheoah serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cheoah?
Cheoah has a dam height of 214 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 Cheoah last inspected?
Cheoah was last inspected on July 20, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.