An underwater dam in the Willamette River between Eugene and Springfield has trapped people in powerful currents — and kept local governments in a cycle of inaction — for years. That cycle may now be breaking.
Calling it a safety hazard, the city of Eugene has launched and released a timeline for a “Millrace Lowhead Dam Feasibility Study.” The study will help guide agencies about what they should do to address the low-head dam near the Interstate 5 bridge.
Low-head dams are derelict infrastructure left as submerged barriers, known for creating recirculating flows that can overturn boats and trap even experienced paddlers…