Bull Run Lake Near Brightwood Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Bull Run Lake is located in the Mount Hood National Forest near Brightwood, Oregon.


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Summary

The lake, which has a surface area of approximately 6,600 acres, is the primary drinking water source for the city of Portland. The Bull Run Watershed, which includes the lake and surrounding area, was established in 1892 to provide clean water to the growing city. The lake is fed by snowpack from the surrounding mountains and has a controlled release system to maintain water levels. The watershed is managed by the Portland Water Bureau, and access to the lake is limited to approved activities and individuals. There are no agricultural uses in the area, and recreational activities are also limited to protect the water quality. The lake and surrounding area provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including fish, amphibians, and mammals.

Reservoir Details

Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft 24hr Change 0.01%
Percent of Normal 100%
Minimum 3,158.68 ft
2019-12-07
Maximum 3,181.14 ft
2014-03-11
Average 3,168 ft
Dam_Height 55
Hydraulic_Height 53
Drainage_Area 3.9
Year_Completed 1965
Nid_Storage 14500
Structural_Height 57
Surface_Area 445
River_Or_Stream BULL RUN RIVER
Dam_Length 150
Hazard_Potential Low
Primary_Dam_Type Earth
Nid_Height 57
       
Seasonal Comparison
Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft Levels

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.