Bull Run Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Bull Run Lake Dam, located in Troutdale, Oregon, serves as a vital water supply source for the region.
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Summary
Completed in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 55 feet with a structural height of 57 feet, impounding the Bull Run River to create a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 10,000 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is water supply, reflecting its critical role in ensuring a reliable water source for the surrounding communities.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Bull Run Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. The dam's location within Multnomah County and proximity to the Bull Run River underscores its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1,100 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a key role in managing water flow and ensuring water availability for both human and environmental needs.
While Bull Run Lake Dam does not have associated locks or spillways, its strategic position along the Bull Run River provides significant benefits in terms of water storage and management. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of infrastructure like Bull Run Lake Dam in ensuring water security and resilience is more crucial than ever. With ongoing inspections and regulatory oversight, this dam remains a critical piece of Oregon's water supply infrastructure and a key asset in the region's efforts to adapt to changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
55 |
River Or Stream |
BULL RUN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
445 |
Hydraulic Height |
53 |
Drainage Area |
3.9 |
Nid Storage |
14500 |
Structural Height |
57 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
57 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lake Charles Dam