Faraday Forebay Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Faraday Forebay, also known as Faraday Lake, is a private hydroelectric facility located in Estacada, Oregon, along the Clackamas River.


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Summary

Completed in 1907, this earth dam structure stands at 33 feet tall and spans 1500 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 550 acre-feet and a surface area of 50 acres. The dam serves the primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, but also offers recreational opportunities for visitors.

With a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, Faraday Forebay is closely monitored by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The dam features a controlled spillway and five vertical lift outlet gates. Despite its age, the condition assessment for the dam is currently not available, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety and integrity. The emergency action plan for the facility was last revised in December 2020.

Located within the Clackamas River watershed in Clackamas County, Oregon, Faraday Forebay is a significant infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the region. As a key player in the local energy sector and a popular recreational destination, the facility contributes to both the economic and environmental well-being of the surrounding community.

Year Completed

1907

Dam Length

1500

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

Clackamas River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

665

Nid Storage

550

Structural Height

33

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

33
       
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.