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Protect Detroit Lake

The future of our cherished Detroit Lake remains uncertain. Join us in our mission to conserve Detroit Lake.

CALL TO ACTION: Help Us Protect Detroit Lake & Our Water Supply

Donate to Protect Detroit Lake
Press Release

In-Person Meetings 

Dec. 6, 2025 
⏰ 10 a.m. - noon 
🏢 Detroit City Council Chambers 
     345 Santiam Ave 
     Detroit, OR 97342 

Dec. 10, 2025  
⏰ Noon – 2 p.m.  
🏢 Broadway Commons 
    1300 Broadway St. NE, Room 307 
    Salem, Oregon 97301 

Dec. 10, 2025  
⏰ 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. 
🏢 Broadway Commons 
    1300 Broadway St. NE, Room 307 
    Salem, Oregon 97301 

Important Update! (11/25/25)

As many of you have likely seen, the draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) was released last week, officially beginning the public review period. The comment window is currently set to close on December 29.

As you know, the proposed drawdown could have significant consequences for drinking water, fisheries, and local economies throughout our region. Strong, coordinated public engagement will be essential. We encourage your organization to submit comments so your perspectives are included in the official record. The Detroit Lake Foundation is preparing draft materials and will share templates you can tailor and submit.

We are also working closely with Oregon’s congressional delegation to request an extension of the comment period from the Corps. We anticipate that members of Congress will send a letter to the agency early next week. While we are hopeful for an extension, it remains critical that everyone prepare comments in advance of the current December 29 deadline.

How You Can Help

Your support would make a meaningful difference. If you’re willing, please consider the following actions:

1. Contact your Member of Congress

Share your support for extending the comment deadline and express your broader concerns about the drawdown proposal. Below are the staff members for each congressional office:

2. Attend Public Comment Meetings

Robust participation at the Corps’ in-person meetings will help demonstrate widespread community concern. Meetings are scheduled as follows:

Saturday, December 6 at 10:00 AM

Detroit City Council Chambers

345 Santiam Ave

Detroit, OR 97342

Wednesday, December 10 at 12:00 PM

Broadway Commons, Room 307

1300 Broadway St. NE

Salem, OR 97301

Wednesday, December 10 at 5:30 PM

Broadway Commons, Room 307

1300 Broadway St. NE

Salem, OR 97301

3. Prepare Public Comment Letters

It is vital that the Corps hear from as many organizations, businesses, and individuals as possible. As noted, the Detroit Lake Foundation will soon circulate materials to support the development and submission of comments.

If you have any questions or would like to coordinate outreach efforts, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Thank you for your continued engagement and for helping ensure that community voices are heard throughout this process.

Tracie Evenson

Lake Level Committee Chair

Download Letter

Protect Detroit Lake
Protecting Our Waterways, Sustaining Our Future

The planned drawdown of Detroit Lake has now been pushed to Fall 2026 — but make no mistake, the crisis still looms. The timeline may have shifted, but the risks remain the same.

Our water treatment plants are not equipped to handle the turbidity that will come with this drawdown.

If rainfall and snowpack are lacking, the reservoir may not refill — threatening our drinking water, agricultural needs, and the vitality of our region.

We support fish protection, but not at the cost of human access to clean, reliable water. There has to be a better way.

There are too many unanswered questions, too many risks to our canyon and valley communities. We cannot afford to stand by.

Join us in taking a stand. Contact your state representative today and urge them to:

  • Push for a more comprehensive impact assessment

  • Explore alternative solutions that protect both fish and water quality

  • Support our local municipalities, farmers, and families who depend on this reservoir

Let your voice be heard — our future depends on it.

Find your Oregon state representatives here:

Together, we can protect the heart of our canyon.

Donate today to help us protect these essential resources for generations to come.

Why is it important?

Conserving Detroit Lake in Oregon offers numerous environmental, economic, and community benefits. Here’s a summary of key benefits:

1. Ensuring Water Supply

  • Drinking Water: Detroit Lake is a critical source of drinking water for Salem and other nearby communities.

  • Agricultural Support: The lake’s water is essential for irrigation and supports the livelihoods of local farmers.

2. Environmental Preservation

  • Ecosystem Protection: The lake and its surrounding waterways support diverse plant and animal species. Conserving it ensures the health of aquatic and riparian ecosystems.

  • Climate Resilience: Healthy lakes and waterways can mitigate the effects of climate change, such as droughts and extreme weather.

3. Recreational Opportunities

  • Tourism and Outdoor Activities: Detroit Lake attracts visitors for boating, fishing, camping, and hiking. Conservation helps maintain these recreational opportunities, supporting local businesses.

  • Quality of Life: The lake enhances the well-being of residents and visitors who enjoy its natural beauty and activities.

4. Economic Stability

  • Local Economy: Tourism and recreation on the lake drive significant economic activity, creating jobs and supporting businesses in the region.

  • Property Values: Maintaining the lake’s health and water levels helps preserve property values in the surrounding area.

5. Flood and Sediment Control

  • Flood Management: Proper water management helps control downstream flooding, protecting communities and infrastructure.

  • Sediment Reduction: Conservation efforts can reduce sedimentation, which preserves water quality and extends the lake’s longevity.

6. Community and Cultural Value

  • Shared Heritage: Detroit Lake is a cherished landmark that fosters a sense of community and pride among residents and visitors.

  • Education and Stewardship: Conservation initiatives encourage environmental education and inspire stewardship among future generations.

By conserving Detroit Lake, we protect not just a natural resource but also the lifeblood of the community, environment, and economy.

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