Cherokee Dam

Keckley Run· Frederick, Virginia· Earth· 46 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Cherokee Dam is classified as significant hazard in Virginia. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 46 ft (taller than 91.5% in VA)
Dam Length750 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage443 acre-ft
Normal Storage307 acre-ft
Surface Area18 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
NID IDVA069004

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Ownership

Frederick County

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Cherokee Dam?

Cherokee Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Cherokee Dam?

Cherokee Dam is owned by Frederick County (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Cherokee Dam?

Cherokee Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Cherokee Dam?

Cherokee Dam has a dam height of 46 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.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.