The Dalles Lock and Dam
Key Takeaway
The Dalles Lock and Dam is classified as high hazard in Oregon. It was completed in 1957 and is 69 years old. Its primary use is navigation. 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 | 116 ft (taller than 95.5% in OR) |
| Dam Length | 8,735 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 330.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 277.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 11,200 acres |
| Drainage Area | 237,000 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,290,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1957 (69 years old) |
| NID ID | OR00002 |
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 The Dalles Lock and Dam?
The Dalles Lock and 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 The Dalles Lock and Dam?
The Dalles Lock and Dam is owned by USACE - Portland District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was The Dalles Lock and Dam built?
The Dalles Lock and Dam was completed in 1957, making it 69 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 The Dalles Lock and Dam?
The Dalles Lock and Dam serves the following purposes: Navigation, Other, Irrigation, Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is The Dalles Lock and Dam?
The Dalles Lock and Dam has a dam height of 116 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 The Dalles Lock and Dam last inspected?
The Dalles Lock and Dam was last inspected on April 12, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.