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Bennett Dams

The Santiam Water Control District and the City of Salem are shared-owners of the infrastructure referred to as the Bennett Dam Complex: Upper Bennett Dam, Lower Bennett Dam, and the SWCD Power/Canal Spillway. 

Upper Bennett Dam, located at the top of the south channel at river mile (RM) 31.5, diverts water toward the City’s drinking water facility intake on the north channel.

Lower Bennett Dam, located downstream on the north channel near RM 29, directs water toward the Santiam Water Control District Headgate.

Water that does not enter the headgate flows over a third dam (SWCD Power/Canal Spillway) and is rejoined with the north channel.

Aerial view of a river with a small dam and surrounding greenery.
Lower Dam Overhead Below
Aerial view of a river with a footbridge, surrounded by green trees and a field.
Lower Dam Overhead Side
A serene river with a step-like waterfall and lush trees under a clear blue sky.
Lower Dam Side View
A serene river landscape with trees and a small dam or weir under a blue sky.
Upper Dam Below Overhead
Aerial view of a dam with water cascading over it, flanked by lush greenery.
Lower Dam Behind Overhead
Aerial view of a river with a small dam, surrounded by lush trees.
Upper Dam Side
Aerial view of a river with a spillway, surrounded by dense forest and a building complex with a tall chimney.
Lower Dam Overhead Behind
Aerial view of a river with a small dam and surrounding greenery.
Aerial view of a river with a footbridge, surrounded by green trees and a field.
A serene river with a step-like waterfall and lush trees under a clear blue sky.
A serene river landscape with trees and a small dam or weir under a blue sky.
Aerial view of a dam with water cascading over it, flanked by lush greenery.
Aerial view of a river with a small dam, surrounded by lush trees.
Aerial view of a river with a spillway, surrounded by dense forest and a building complex with a tall chimney.