Photo By Shelia Fourman | In a recent site visit on April 2-3, Seattle District’s Commander, Col. Kathryn...... read more read more
Chief Joseph Dam, located on the Columbia River in Bridgeport, Washington, stands as a monumental achievement in hydropower and infrastructure development. As the second-largest hydropower dam in the U.S., it plays a critical role in powering the Pacific Northwest and maintaining vital flood control, navigation, and environmental functions. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Seattle District, the dam is not just a feat of engineering, it is an integral component of the region's energy infrastructure and ecosystem management.
Today, the dam is undergoing a multi-million-dollar project, which includes rehabilitation of the 16-unit generator rewinds, replacing generator air coolers, and installing a new machine condition monitoring system to produce more efficient and reliable hydropower.
With a generating capacity of over 2,600 megawatts, Chief Joseph Dam provides power to millions of homes and businesses in the Pacific Northwest. The dam’s hydropower production is essential for meeting regional energy demands, particularly during peak times and in supporting renewable energy goals.
“Beyond its role in energy production, Chief Joseph Dam is critical for other purposes such as flood risk management, recreational activities, and ensuring the protection of the Columbia River ecosystem,” said Zach Zimchek, Chief Joseph Dam’s project manager.
The USACE Seattle District is responsible for managing and maintaining Chief Joseph Dam, which involves continuous oversight and proactive decision-making in areas such as structural integrity, environmental compliance, and community relations. One key element in ensuring the ongoing success of such a critical infrastructure project is effective leadership and collaboration. This is where the importance of key leader engagement becomes evident.
In a recent site visit on April 2-3, Seattle District’s Commander, Col. Kathryn Sanborn, visited Chief Joseph Dam and met with the district’s Chief Joseph Dam project staff, discussed current operations, and gained firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities associated with the facility and ongoing project. This visit provided an invaluable opportunity for USACE leadership to connect directly with staff, helping ensure that the Corps' operations align with both regional needs and national priorities.
"Conducting a site visit is essential to understanding the true impact of our operations on the ground, strengthening relationships, and ensuring that we are making informed decisions to support both our infrastructure and the communities we serve," said Sanborn. "It also provides invaluable insight into the challenges and opportunities of our projects, allowing us to align our efforts with the needs of the community and ensure the long-term success of critical infrastructure."
The site visit allowed leaders to observe critical operational processes, such as turbine maintenance and flood risk management, while also discussing environmental challenges such as salmon conservation efforts. These interactions foster transparency, build trust with the public, and ensure that leadership remains informed about the operational realities on the ground.
Engaging with these groups ensures that the Corps remains aligned with community priorities, regulatory standards, and collaborative environmental efforts. This engagement underscores the Corps’ commitment to balancing energy production with environmental protection, an increasingly important aspect of hydropower operations in the modern era.
The USACE Seattle District’s commitment to maintaining and enhancing the operations at Chief Joseph Dam reflects its broader mission to deliver critical infrastructure solutions for the nation. By leveraging hydropower as a renewable energy source, the district supports not only the energy needs of the Pacific Northwest but also contributes to the Corps' overall goal of fostering a lasting, secure, and resilient national infrastructure system.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to driving innovation to support hydropower operations and long-term efficiency to provide reliable, renewable energy while balancing resource management and community needs," said Amy Reese, chief of Seattle District’s operations division.
Chief Joseph Dam is more than just an engineering marvel; it is a testament to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' continued commitment to providing engineering solutions for the country. By maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders and promoting transparency in operations, the Seattle District strengthens its role as a vital component of the Corps’ mission and its ongoing legacy of infrastructure excellence.
"The visit to Chief Joseph Dam underscores the critical role of this project and the team and partners supporting it in ensuring that we continue to operate and maintain our nation's vital infrastructure with the highest standards of efficiency and land and water conservation stewardship," said Sanborn.
| Date Taken: | 04.08.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 04.08.2025 15:48 |
| Story ID: | 494875 |
| Location: | BRIDGEPORT, WASHINGTON, US |
| Web Views: | 194 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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