Powering the Pacific Northwest Since 1938

Bonneville Dam, Lake Bonneville, and associated facilities are operated for hydropower, navigation, fish and wildlife, recreation, and water quality. Bonneville Dam was authorized by Congress for power and navigation in the 1935 Rivers and Harbors Act. The first powerhouse, spillway, and navigation lock were completed in 1938, and the second powerhouse in 1981. The lock was expanded in 1993. Bonneville Lock and Dam was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.