North Fork Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

North Fork, located in Estacada, Oregon, is a privately owned hydroelectric dam on the Clackamas River.


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Summary

Completed in 1958, this arch dam stands at a height of 207 feet and has a storage capacity of 18,630 acre-feet. With a maximum discharge of 150,000 cubic feet per second, North Fork serves not only for hydroelectric purposes but also for recreation, offering a surface area of 350 acres for various water activities.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, North Fork poses a high hazard potential due to its structural height and hydraulic features. Although the condition assessment is not available, regular inspections are carried out with an inspection frequency of 1. The dam is equipped with a controlled spillway and three Tainter radial gates for water release during emergencies.

Despite its high risk potential, North Fork continues to be a vital source of clean energy and outdoor recreation for the community. Its strategic location in the Clackamas River watershed provides essential water resource management for the region, making it a noteworthy landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

676

Dam Height

207

River Or Stream

Clackamas River

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Surface Area

350

Hydraulic Height

154

Drainage Area

671

Nid Storage

18630

Structural Height

206

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 3

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

207
       
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.