Bonneville Locks And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Bonneville Locks and Dam, located on the Columbia River in Oregon, is a federal structure owned and operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Completed in 1938, this gravity dam serves primarily for navigation purposes, with hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and other functions also in play. The dam stands at a height of 197 feet and stretches 2,477 feet in length, with a spillway width of 1,450 feet. It features two locks, each 675 feet long and 85 feet wide, facilitating the passage of vessels along the river.

With a very high risk assessment due to the inherent hazards associated with dam operations, the US Army Corps of Engineers diligently manages flood risks at Bonneville Locks and Dam. This entails ongoing monitoring of the dam's condition, prioritizing risk-reducing activities, and engaging with local emergency managers and the public to ensure readiness for any potential emergencies. Regular maintenance and repairs are conducted to ensure the dam's structural integrity and functionality. These efforts underscore the importance of proactive risk management and preparedness in safeguarding the surrounding communities and the environment from potential dam-related emergencies.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

2477

Dam Height

56

River Or Stream

COLUMBIA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

20600

Length Of Locks

675

Hydraulic Height

50

Drainage Area

240000

Nid Storage

537000

Structural Height

197

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

197
       
Seasonal Comparison

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.