Nisqually River Project
The Nisqually River Project began generating electricity in 1912 with a diversion dam and Tacoma Power’s first hydroelectric powerhouse. In 1945, the diversion dam was replaced by Alder Dam and LaGrande Dam, which today provide reliable, clean power to approximately 43,000 homes.
Clean, Renewable Energy and Community Benefits
In addition to producing clean, renewable hydropower, the Nisqually River Project supports fish, wildlife, recreation, and local communities through:
-
The kokanee fishery, planting up to 500,000 fish annually in Alder Lake for anglers
-
River flow enhancements from LaGrande Dam to improve habitat for Chinook and coho salmon downstream
-
Funding for the Nisqually Indian Tribe’s Clear Creek Hatchery, producing approximately 4 million Chinook smolts and 1 million coho smolts each year
-
Protection of 3,500 acres of wildlife habitat in the Nisqually River basin
-
Public recreation at Alder Lake, Rocky Point Campground, and Sunny Beach Point, including boating, fishing, camping, water skiing, and day use
Tours and Education
Tacoma Power offers free group tours of its hydroelectric facilities for school, civic, business, and recreational groups during regular working hours. Tours are available by appointment.
