ABOUT THE PROJECT

Background

The marinas on Detroit Lake are cornerstones of community activity, supporting the lake’s celebrated watersport culture and fueling the local economy in the warm seasons. Over recent years, the community’s economy has been strained by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, wildfires and conditions that shorten the amount of time residents and visitors can access the lake.

Detroit Lake Marina and Kane's Marina lay upon shallow shelves. Since the lake has routinely failed to reach the "full pool" seasonal depth necessary to support a robust and viable lake recreation season, the marinas have been forced to open later and close their docks increasingly early.

This excavation project will enable the marinas to operate down to 1,525 feet, ensuring a more reliable and viable lake recreation season.

Multiple factors have affected Detroit Lake’s ability to maintain a “full pool” depth during summer, including:

Changing weather patterns

Municipal water needs

Fish and wildlife mitigation policies

Five-foot reduction of “full pool” depth to mitigate seismic hazards at Detroit Dam

Goals and outcomes

Create more dependable lake access and community benefits

The purpose of the Detroit Marinas Excavation and Resiliency Project is to assist Detroit Lake Marina and Kane’s Marina to maintain operations through the summer. This may include strategically excavating sediment beneath the docks so the marinas can operate at lower water levels. This will help maintain an annual summer lake season of May 1 to October 1 and support the local economy.

Revive the local economy

This resiliency project is estimated to create*:

• $1.2 million annually in direct and indirect economic activity throughout the region of the North Santiam Canyon.
• $14.6 million in net economic gain for the region over 20 years.

*Economic Importance of Water in the North Santiam Basin, 2019

Supporting wildlife and habitat benefits

Supporting a thriving ecosystem is a priority for Marion County and its community partners. This project aims to create and enhance habitat for fish and wildlife. 

Project Timeline

Permitting Schedule

•Permits on track for excavation to start by 2026 reservoir draw down

•Communicating with reviewing agencies to provide quick responses if need be