McNary Dam, Hydroelectric power station and dam on Columbia River, Oregon and Washington, United States
McNary Dam is a hydroelectric installation spanning 2245 meters across the Columbia River between Oregon and Washington. The structure harnesses the river's flow to generate power for the region.
Construction started in 1947 under the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and progressed through the mid-1950s. The project was part of a larger effort to develop hydropower along the Columbia River system.
The structure received its name in honor of Senator Charles L. McNary of Oregon through the Flood Control Act of 1945.
The installation includes fish passage facilities for salmon migration and a lock system for river navigation. Visitors can observe the infrastructure from several viewpoints around the site.
The dam can rapidly restore power to the grid following major electrical failures, making it a critical safety resource. This capability allows it to help stabilize regional electricity supply during emergencies.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
