Located 40 miles east of Portland, the Bonneville Lock and Dam is a national historic site, and one of several dams on the Columbia River. The dam, built and operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, was the first federal lock and dam on the Columbia River. Recognized as one of the world’s largest hydroelectric systems, the Bonneville Project Act was signed into law in 1937 by President Roosevelt. Built during the Great Depression, an additional powerhouse was completed in 1981, and a larger navigation lock in 1993. The two powerhouses today produce 5 billion kilowatts of electricity each year, providing power for 80 percent of the Pacific Northwest.
   Here at the Bradford Island Visitor Center sightseers are able to see how nature and technology co-exist at this mamoth lock and dam. Visitors may aslo appreciate the cultural history of the region, dam construction, development of navigation along the Columbia River, and the life-cycles of salmon. Underwater windows allow guests to peer into a fish ladder as the fish pass by. The number of fish species and size of the fish are recorded. A rooftop observation deck provides a panoramic view of the Columbia River Gorge.
   The Bradford Island Recreation Area is open daily 7 am to 5 pm. All vehicles must stop at the guard station for an inspection. Wildlife viewing, picnicing, and fishing are popular activities here at the site.

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