Last week, Congressman Andrew Clyde visited the Chatuge Dam along with Towns County Sole Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw, Towns County EMA Director Marty Roberts, and members of Rep. Chuck Edwards’ staff. They met with Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) officials to discuss plans to address spillway safety concerns.
A recent TVA study highlighted vulnerabilities in the Chatuge Dam spillway, though current conditions are not deemed an emergency. The TVA aims to enhance spillway safety to mitigate long-term operational risks. The study draws parallels between Chatuge’s vulnerabilities and those that contributed to failures at California’s Oroville Dam. The TVA has proposed four alternatives for a long-term solution.
Congressman Clyde emphasized finding a “sensible approach” that considers both the structural integrity of the dam and the community’s well-being. He stated, “Residents, local officials, and small business owners throughout Towns County have shared serious concerns about the potential disastrous economic consequences of the Tennessee Valley Authority’s current proposals for dam modification. Given Chatuge Lake attracts incredible tourism and seasonal activity, potential drawdown plans present tremendous challenges to the economic lifeblood of Towns County.”
Towns County Sole Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw expressed gratitude for Clyde’s attention to local concerns, noting, “The potential impact of a long-term drawdown of Chatuge Lake would be disastrous to the livelihood of our community.” He encouraged residents to participate in TVA’s public commenting period, running from April 22 through May 28, with public meetings scheduled in various locations.
Detailed TVA plans and opportunities for public input can be found in the Federal Register and other communications linked by TVA.
