Dexter Dam
Key Takeaway
Dexter Dam is classified as high hazard in Oregon. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 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 | 65 ft (taller than 89.2% in OR) |
| Dam Length | 2,765 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 29.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 22.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,025 acres |
| Drainage Area | 996 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 270,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1955 (71 years old) |
| NID ID | OR00006 |
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 Dexter Dam?
Dexter 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 Dexter Dam?
Dexter Dam is owned by USACE - Portland District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Dexter Dam built?
Dexter Dam was completed in 1955, making it 71 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 Dexter Dam?
Dexter Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, 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 Dexter Dam?
Dexter Dam has a dam height of 65 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 Dexter Dam last inspected?
Dexter Dam was last inspected on June 12, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.