Introduction
Bonneville Lock and Dam is located 40 miles east of Portland, Ore. at river mile 145. The Dalles Lock and Dam is located at river mile 192. John Day Lock and Dam is located at river mile 216. Combined, these three facilities produces an average of 23 million megawatt hours of electricity through the use of 56 large hydroelectric generators. Any time large industrial equipment is in such close proximity to the river, there is a risk of accidental releases of oil into the waterway.
The Corps of Engineers does everything possible to minimize, if not prevent, the risk of such occurrences. One method the Corps utilizes is oil/water separators at each of the powerhouses. These devices separate any spilled oil from the water in much the same way a gravy separator works in your home before returning the clean water to the river.
The Corps works cooperatively with federal and state environmental protection agencies to ensure the Corps’ actions are consistent with applicable laws. Protocols are in place to respond to and manage any oil released into the river in a timely manner. These protocols are constantly reviewed to ensure prompt action is taken and appropriate officials notified.
You are invited to e-mail your comments or questions to the Portland District at DLL-CENWPQuestions@nwp01.usace.army.mil.