Blue River Dam, also known as Blue River Lake, is a federal-owned structure located in Lane County, Oregon. Completed in 1968 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this earth dam stands at a height of 270 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction. With a storage capacity of 89,000 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 53,200 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels in the Blue River.

Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is equipped with a controlled spillway and regularly monitored by the US Army Corps of Engineers to address and manage flood risks. The agency collaborates with local emergency managers to develop emergency action plans, conduct risk assessments, and ensure the structural integrity of the dam. As climate change increases the unpredictability of severe weather events, the management of water resources at Blue River Dam becomes even more crucial to prevent potential issues and protect downstream communities.

In addition to flood risk reduction, Blue River Dam also supports irrigation, navigation, and recreational activities. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role and management of dams like Blue River Dam is essential to ensuring the sustainable use of water resources in the face of changing climate patterns.