Portland #3 (Washington Park) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Portland #3 (Washington Park) is a gravity-type dam located in Multnomah County, Oregon, with a primary purpose of water supply from the Bull Run River.
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Summary
Constructed in 1894, this historic dam stands at a height of 53 feet and has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. With a maximum discharge of 300 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in ensuring water availability for the city of Portland.
Owned by the local government and regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Portland #3 is classified as having a high hazard potential but is currently assessed as being in satisfactory condition. The dam features slide gates for outlet control and undergoes inspections annually to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its age, Portland #3 continues to serve as a vital water resource infrastructure in the region, providing a reliable water supply for the surrounding areas.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Portland #3 offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of history, engineering, and environmental stewardship. As a key component of the region's water supply infrastructure, this dam exemplifies the importance of maintaining and regulating critical water resources for sustainable use and resilience in the face of changing climatic conditions. With its rich history and ongoing role in water management, Portland #3 (Washington Park) serves as a testament to the enduring significance of water resources in shaping the development and sustainability of communities.
Year Completed |
1894 |
Dam Length |
100 |
Dam Height |
53 |
River Or Stream |
BULL RUN RIVER (OFFSTREAM) |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
45 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Structural Height |
53 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
53 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Willamette River At Portland
|
75600cfs |
Fanno Creek At 56th Ave
|
3cfs |
Johnson Creek At Milwaukie
|
116cfs |
Tryon Creek Blw Nettle Creek
|
11cfs |
Fanno Creek At Durham
|
36cfs |
Columbia Slough At Portland
|
5cfs |
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.
Portland #3 (Washington Park)
South Waterfront Park Trail Downtown