Willamette Falls Locks Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

The Willamette Falls Locks in Oregon, managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, have been a vital part of the region's waterway navigation system since they were completed in 1873.


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Summary

The Locks consist of five concrete structures that span 175 feet in length and 37 feet in width, allowing for the movement of vessels along the Willamette River. The Locks are crucial for maintaining the flow of commerce and transportation in the area.

Recent risk assessments have categorized the life-safety risks associated with the Locks as low, but potential issues such as the collapse of masonry walls during a large earthquake could lead to water release and impact nearby properties and infrastructure. To mitigate these risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers is working on designing a retrofit to stabilize the lock walls against earthquake loads and implementing emergency action plans. Routine inspections and post-earthquake procedures are in place to ensure the safety and functionality of the Locks, with a focus on improving risk communication and public awareness of flood risks in the community. Despite the challenges, the Willamette Falls Locks continue to play a vital role in the region's water resource management and climate resilience efforts.

Year Completed

1873

River Or Stream

WILLAMETTE

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Length Of Locks

175

Hydraulic Height

37

Nid Storage

17000

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

37
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds