Franzen Reservoir Report
Nearby: Duck Pond Dam Waldo Lake
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Marion, Oregon, the Franzen Dam, also known as Turner Dam, serves as a vital water supply structure managed by the local government.
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Summary
Built in 1952, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet, making it essential for water management in the region. The dam's primary purpose is water supply, and it has a high hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment as of its last inspection in November 2020.
Situated in the city of Turner, the Franzen Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and ensuring a stable water supply for the surrounding area. With a drainage area of 8.5 square miles and a maximum discharge of 375 cubic feet per second, the dam's infrastructure includes an outlet gate system with slide (sluice gate) mechanisms. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as satisfactory, indicating its effective maintenance and operational standards.
As an essential component of Oregon's water resource infrastructure, the Franzen Dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of climate change. With its strategic location and efficient design, the dam continues to play a key role in water supply management, highlighting the critical need for resilience and adaptability in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
2040 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
OFF CHANNEL |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
8.5 |
Nid Storage |
300 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Willamette River At Salem
|
35800cfs |
North Santiam River Near Jefferson
|
7220cfs |
Santiam River At Jefferson
|
13800cfs |
Thomas Creek Near Scio
|
743cfs |
Silver Creek At Silverton
|
52cfs |
Luckiamute River Near Suver
|
3790cfs |
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.
Franzen
Cascades Gateway Park