Detroit Dam
Key Takeaway
Detroit Dam is classified as high hazard in Oregon. It was completed in 1953 and is 73 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 369 ft (taller than 99.5% in OR) |
| Dam Length | 1,580 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 455.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 155.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3,490 acres |
| Drainage Area | 438 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 176,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1953 (73 years old) |
| NID ID | OR00004 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
USACE - Portland District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Detroit Dam?
Detroit Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Detroit Dam?
Detroit Dam is owned by USACE - Portland District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Detroit Dam built?
Detroit Dam was completed in 1953, making it 73 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 Detroit Dam?
Detroit Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Other, Irrigation, Navigation, Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Detroit Dam?
Detroit Dam has a dam height of 369 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 Detroit Dam last inspected?
Detroit Dam was last inspected on June 16, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.