Detroit Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 23, 2025

Detroit Dam, also known as Detroit Lake, is a gravity dam located on the North Santiam River in Oregon.


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Summary

Built in 1953 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the primary purpose of the dam is flood risk reduction, although it also serves for hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, navigation, and recreation. With a height of 369 feet and a storage capacity of 455,000 acre-feet, Detroit Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

However, recent risk assessments have raised concerns about the dam's performance during extreme events, particularly earthquakes. A 2020 study highlighted the potential for increased shaking at the site, leading to higher risks associated with the spillway gates. To mitigate these risks, interim measures have been implemented, such as reducing the maximum reservoir level and evaluating the seismic performance of key components. USACE is committed to ongoing monitoring, inspection, and risk management to ensure the safety and effectiveness of Detroit Dam in reducing flood risks for downstream communities.

Despite the inherent risks posed by extreme events, USACE is confident in the structural integrity of the Willamette Valley dams, including Detroit Dam. While flooding remains a potential threat, the implementation of targeted risk reduction measures and the development of emergency action plans demonstrate a proactive approach to managing risks and enhancing community resilience in the face of natural disasters.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

1580

Dam Height

369

River Or Stream

NORTH SANTIAM RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

3490

Hydraulic Height

364

Drainage Area

438

Nid Storage

455000

Structural Height

463

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

463
       
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.