Detroit Lake Near Detroit Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 23, 2025

Detroit Lake is a reservoir located near Detroit, Oregon that was created in 1953 with the construction of an earthen dam on the North Santiam River.


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Summary

The hydrology of the lake is heavily influenced by snowpack in the surrounding mountains, which provides a significant portion of its surface flow. The lake serves as a critical water source for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation in the Willamette Valley. In addition to its agricultural uses, Detroit Lake also provides recreational opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping. The lake is surrounded by the Willamette National Forest, which offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing opportunities. However, the lake has recently faced issues with water quality due to harmful algal blooms caused by nutrient pollution from agricultural practices and urban development in the area.

Reservoir Details

Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft 24hr Change -0.06%
Percent of Normal 102%
Minimum 1,424.07 ft
2020-01-01
Maximum 1,566.85 ft
2019-04-13
Average 1,465 ft
Dam_Height 369
Hydraulic_Height 364
Drainage_Area 438
Year_Completed 1953
Nid_Storage 455000
Hazard_Potential High
Structural_Height 463
River_Or_Stream NORTH SANTIAM RIVER
Foundations Rock
Surface_Area 3490
Dam_Length 1580
Primary_Dam_Type Gravity
Nid_Height 463
       
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.