The River Mill hydro project, located about a mile west of Estacada, began generating power in 1911. Five turbines generate enough electricity to power more than 10,000 homes.

Since it is the first structure encountered by fish migrating up the Clackamas River, River Mill’s fish ladders play an important role in upstream migration. New improvements to the upriver side of the structure will help fish heading downstream as well.

PGE hydro projects on the Clackamas River

Preserving local history
River Mill is important in Oregon’s history. As the oldest operating Ambursen dam on the West Coast, it marked a turning point toward more efficient use of raw materials in dam construction. Rail lines built to carry workers and materials to the site also brought tourism to the region, all of which led to the birth of the city of Estacada.

Pictorial History: Electrifying Portland
The River Mill Hydroelectric Project is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Learn more about River Mill’s role in history by checking out our slideshow, Pictorial History: Electrifying Portland.

Timeline: Electrifying Portland
The decades leading up to River Mill’s construction were pivotal times in Oregon’s growth and the nation’s use of electricity. What was formerly lit by candle or oil lamps or transported by horse and buggy now were illuminated and transported by electric lights and trains. See Timeline: Electrifying Portland.