Faraday Diversion

Clackamas River· Clackamas, Oregon· Built 1965· Gravity· 55 ft tall
Significant Hazard Hydroelectric Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Faraday Diversion is classified as significant hazard in Oregon. It was completed in 1965 and is 61 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 55 ft (taller than 85.6% in OR)
Dam Length407 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage1.2K acre-ft
Normal Storage1.2K acre-ft
Surface Area70 acres
Drainage Area671 sq mi
Max Discharge177,000 cfs
Year Completed1965 (61 years old)
NID IDOR00551

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

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

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 20, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Portland General Electric Company

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Faraday Diversion?

Faraday Diversion is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Faraday Diversion?

Faraday Diversion is owned by Portland General Electric Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Faraday Diversion built?

Faraday Diversion was completed in 1965, making it 61 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 Faraday Diversion?

Faraday 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 Faraday Diversion?

Faraday Diversion has a dam height of 55 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 Faraday Diversion last inspected?

Faraday Diversion was last inspected on September 20, 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.