Lake Chatuge was created in 1942 when the Tennessee Valley Authority finished construction on a 2950 foot earth-fill type dam across the Hiawassee River. Originally for the purpose of flood control and to bring affordable electrical power to the area, the unsurpassed beauty of the lake that was created has an allure all its own. Visitors and residents enjoy leisurely strolls along the dam witha spectacular view of the "Jewel of the Mountains," and an abundance of scenic coves along the 133 mile shoreline are great for fishing, swimming, boating, camping and water sports. Lake Chatuge (pronounced Sha Toog) encompasses about 7200 acres, 3700 of which lie in Clay County. The Weir, just north of the dam, offers picnic tables and a launch for canoes and tubes for a trip on the Hiawassee River to a take out area near Fires Creek Wildlife Management Area. Call TVA for information regarding water conditions and release schedules at 828.837.7395 or 1.800.TVA.LAND.