Walterville Forebay Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Walterville Forebay is a significant hydroelectric structure located on the McKenzie River in Lane County, Oregon.


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Summary

Built in 1911, this concrete dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a storage capacity of 275 acre-feet. With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, the dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and undergoes inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.

The primary purpose of the Walterville Forebay is to generate hydroelectric power, making it a crucial part of the region's energy infrastructure. With a maximum discharge of 3380 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a key role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. Despite its age, the dam remains in good condition, with regular emergency action plans and risk assessments in place to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.

Owned by a public utility, the Walterville Forebay serves as a vital asset in the Portland District's water management system. The dam's location in Springfield, Oregon, along with its impressive design by CH2M, highlights its importance in providing renewable energy and supporting sustainable water resource practices in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Walterville Forebay stands as a testament to the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and energy production in the face of changing climate dynamics.

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

McKenzie River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

1085

Nid Storage

275

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

24
       
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.