User:Bholmes8/Lake Nottely

Lake Nottely (also called Nottely Reservoir) is one of many reservoirs of the Tennessee Valley Authority. It is located entirely in Union County, Georgia in the United States and within the Chatahoochee-Oconee National Forests. Formed in 1942 by the damming of the Nottely River, Nottely Reservoir extends 20 miles (30 km) upstream to the town of Blairsville.

Approximately 70% of the shoreline is under the jurisdiction of the United States Forest Service and is undeveloped. In recent years, many new homes and properties have contributed to Lake Nottely's growing importance for recreation. Its proximity to Atlanta (2 hours) and accessibility from major cities in Georgia is resulting in increased development and use of this reservoir.

Geography
Lake Nottely is located in the northwest corner of Georgia near the town of Blairsville. The lake itself lies within the Chattahoochee National Forest and is surrounded by the Northeast Georgia Mountains. This Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) lake takes up a total of 4,180 acres and has a shoreline measuring at 106 miles.

Construction
Construction of Nottely Dam began in 1941 and was completed in 1942. The dam is 184 feet (56 m) high and stretches 2,300 feet (701 m) across the Nottely River. Lake Nottely is approximately 20 miles (32 km) long and 102 feet (31 m) wide as well as an average depth of 10.6 metres (35 ft), a max depth of 98 feet (30 m) at the dam, and has a flood-storage capacity of 61,588 acre-feet (75,968,000 m3). Its primary purpose was for flood control in the Tennessee River watershed, but in the 1950s a single 15 megawatt generator was installed for power generation.

Fishing
With over 100 miles of shoreline, anglers have plenty of opportunity to fish. Lake Nottely has many species of fish. The most notable or sought after species include largemouth bass, striped bass, and black crappie. Other species found in the lake include spotted bass, channel catfish, bluegill, rainbow trout, sunfish, and hybrid striped bass. There are also plenty of boat ramps and public shoreline access for anglers. Lake Nottely is best known for its trophy striped bass population. The lake record for striped bass is currently set by Christopher Hampton in 2002 with an official weight of 53lbs., 12oz.

Swimming/Water Activities
In addition to fishing, Lake Nottely offers visitors plenty of other opportunities for recreational activities including swimming, boating, and hiking. The lake hosts two marinas and several boat ramps that offer access throughout the lake. Poteete Creek Park is one of the main public parks found at Lake Nottely. The park is hosts a white sand beach swimming area, picnic tables, campgrounds, and boat launch ramp.