30 Oct 2023

Corps seeks public input for Willamette Valley hydropower report to Congress

The Portland District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will gather the public’s perspective and opinions on the future of hydropower across the Corps’ Willamette Valley system of dams during three listening sessions – one in-person and two virtual.

10 Oct 2023

Deep reservoir drawdown at Green Peter Dam causes ‘barotrauma,’ death for thousands of kokanee salmon

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife determined that the fish died from barotrauma, a condition caused by a rapid pressure reduction as fish pass from deep below the surface on one side of the dam to the other side near the surface level. Among divers, this decompression effect is known as “the bends.”

1 Sep 2023

Corps assessing future of hydropower production in Willamette Valley

In two virtual public information sessions, the Portland District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will discuss the role of hydropower at their Willamette Valley dams, and how they’re answering Congress’ call to look at the future of that hydropower.

10 Aug 2023

Corps advises recreation users check Willamette Valley boat ramp availability ahead of Labor Day weekend

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Portland District advises boaters to check availability of boat ramps in the Willamette Valley ahead of the Labor Day weekend.

21 Jul 2023

Colonel Larry “Dale” Caswell, Jr. takes command of Corps’ Portland District

On July 21, 2023, Col. Larry “Dale” Caswell, Jr. assumed command from Col. Mike Helton to become Portland District’s 64th commander.

7 Jun 2023

Corps Hosts Info Session for Rogue River Basin Water Levels

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers water managers for the Rogue River Basin will hold a virtual information to provide an updated outlook on the summer conservation season for the basin.

5 Jun 2023

Road NF-1993 across Cougar Dam closed for construction

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) will close the portion of Road NF-1993 that runs along the crest of Cougar dam to traffic in both directions, from June 5 to Sept. 28. The road will reopen Sept. 29.

22 May 2023

500% Greater Risk of Drowning due to Cold Water at Start of Summer

As millions of Americans head out on the water to enjoy the warmer weather, recreation managers with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are urging caution for the Memorial Day holiday.

17 May 2023

Summer recreational lock schedule now in effect on Columbia River

Recreational boaters passing through the three lower Columbia River dams must follow a summer locking schedule through Sept. 14. Commercial vessels will continue to lock through upon arrival except during the times specified for recreational vessels.

10 May 2023

Corps to begin deep drawdowns at Green Peter, Lookout Point

Beginning in June, the Portland District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will begin to gradually drawdown Lookout Point and Green Peter reservoirs to historically low levels. The goal of these reservoir “drawdowns,” which are part of an injunction ordered by the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon, is to increase juvenile spring Chinook and steelhead survival and passage through the reservoirs and past the dams.