North Canal Diversion

DESCHUTES RIVER· Deschutes, Oregon· Built 1906· Concrete· 33 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Irrigation Public Utility

Key Takeaway

North Canal Diversion is classified as high hazard in Oregon. It was completed in 1906 and is 120 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 33 ft (taller than 66.3% in OR)
Dam Length200 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage40 acre-ft
Normal Storage30 acre-ft
Surface Area31 acres
Drainage Area1,900 sq mi
Max Discharge10,000 cfs
Year Completed1906 (120 years old)
NID IDOR00566

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: October 21, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: OWRD

Ownership

RIVERHOUSE PROPERTY, LLC

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of North Canal Diversion?

North Canal Diversion 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 North Canal Diversion?

North Canal Diversion is owned by RIVERHOUSE PROPERTY, LLC (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was North Canal Diversion built?

North Canal Diversion was completed in 1906, making it 120 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 North Canal Diversion?

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

How tall is North Canal Diversion?

North Canal Diversion has a dam height of 33 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 North Canal Diversion last inspected?

North Canal Diversion was last inspected on October 21, 2020. 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.