Carmen Diversion

McKenzie River· Linn, Oregon· Built 1963· Earth· 17 ft tall
Low Hazard Hydroelectric Recreation Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Carmen Diversion is classified as low hazard in Oregon. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.

Physical Details

Dam Height 17 ft (taller than 23% in OR)
Dam Length2,100 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage260 acre-ft
Normal Storage260 acre-ft
Surface Area30 acres
Drainage Area114 sq mi
Max Discharge6,000 cfs
Year Completed1963 (63 years old)
NID IDOR00539

Safety Information

Low Hazard

No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.

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

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 21, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Eugene Water and Electric Board

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Carmen Diversion?

Carmen Diversion is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Carmen Diversion?

Carmen Diversion is owned by Eugene Water and Electric Board (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Carmen Diversion built?

Carmen Diversion was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Carmen Diversion?

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

How tall is Carmen Diversion?

Carmen Diversion has a dam height of 17 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 Carmen Diversion last inspected?

Carmen Diversion was last inspected on September 21, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

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.