Evolved naturally from consideration of basic resources and founded solidly on recognized needs, the Willamette Valley plan is reinforced by the careful fitting together of its component elements into a symmetrical whole pointed toward the ultimate goal of greater economic and social advancement.
“A Second Report on the Willamette Valley Project,” Oregon State Planning Board, 1937
Despite their willingness to live with floods, many residents became flood-control enthusiasts. In 1933, nine counties in the Willamette Valley joined forces to create the Willamette River Waterways Association to press for federal help. This group eventually developed the Willamette Valley Project, a plan for seven U.S. Army Corps dams in the river system.
Governor Charles Martin appointed the Oregon State Planning Board to advance the plan. The accompanying Willamette Valley Project Committee drummed up support in Portland and up the valley for a multi-dam project. The board claimed that the plan was “an integral part of a long range program for greater development of the entire state — a program in which the whole state participates and shares the benefits.” The Flood Control Act of 1936 furthered efforts to dam the Willamette and its tributaries. The act also authorized the development of a plan for the valley by the U.S. Army Corps, providing the needed federal funding.
