Detroit Dam, Hydroelectric power station in Marion County, United States
Detroit Dam is a hydroelectric power station on the North Santiam River, spanning 465 meters across the water. The facility generates approximately 100 megawatts of power for the region using two turbines.
The United States Army Corps of Engineers completed construction in 1953, after World War II had delayed the project. This marked an important step in powering the region.
The dam created Detroit Lake, which draws anglers, boaters, and campers throughout the year. This body of water has become a gathering place for people seeking outdoor recreation in the Willamette Valley.
The site is easily accessible with parking available and a viewpoint where visitors can see the structure clearly. The warmer months offer better road conditions for reaching the lake and its recreational areas.
Operations have been adjusted to protect endangered Chinook salmon and steelhead trout during their winter migration periods. These changes show how modern energy management can balance power generation with wildlife protection.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
