Projects

Dam Projects

MJ Hughes has experience with dam upgrade and fish ladders.

Dam Repair Contractors in the Pacific Northwest

Dams face constant pressure from river flows, and after years of service, aging concrete begins to crack and wear. As trusted dam repair contractors in the Pacific Northwest, MJ Hughes Construction restores these structures safely and efficiently, helping owners keep water where it belongs.

Dam Repair Contractor in Washington

Repairing a dam requires specialized skill and a strong understanding of local river conditions. As a trusted dam repair contractor in Washington, we plan every project around the region's wet weather and changing river flows. Our crews build dry work areas within the riverbed and handle crack repairs, structural fixes, and gate repairs with care, keeping work on schedule in all conditions.

Spillway and Stilling Basin Construction

Spillways carry high-velocity water safely away from a dam. When a spillway is damaged, that flow can erode the surrounding soil and rock. Stilling basins slow the water before it returns to the river, protecting the riverbed below. Our crews form and pour reinforced concrete walls and floor slabs, and our civil concrete work in Washington is built to handle constant water flow.

Fish Ladder and Fish Passage Construction

Migrating fish need a clear path upstream, and dams can block that route. Fish ladders and passage structures help salmon move safely past the dam. We build custom fish steps, weirs, and gates, and we manage river flows to protect fish while work is underway. Our civil concrete work in Oregon and Washington is designed to support healthy fish routes for years to come.

Concrete Repair and Rehabilitation for Dams

Concrete deteriorates under years of heavy water flow, and small cracks can grow quickly. Our crews remove damaged concrete using high-pressure water, install steel anchors, and place new reinforced concrete. This stops leaks and restores structural strength, helping dams stay safe and in service for years to come.

Our Featured Dam Projects

We have worked on major dam projects across the region and beyond. Here are a few of our key projects:

  • McNary Dam: Collection channel modifications along the Columbia River.
  • Pinto Dam: Stilling basin repairs, with cofferdams installed to manage high lake levels.
  • Green Mountain Spillway: Spillway bridge replacement and concrete chute repairs.
  • Three Rivers Diversion Dam: Fish ladder, weir, and pump construction to support migrating salmon.
  • Hoquiam Dam Removal: Dam removal work in Hoquiam, Washington.

Project Reference & Career Opportunities: Explore detailed case studies on each project page above. Skilled tradespeople interested in civil infrastructure can view open positions on our careers page.