You must be new to the river for the dam has been there since the 50's. It is a diversion for the city of Aberdeen's industrial facilities. The log above to the right is a barrier to keep boats/debris from plugging the fish ladder and water intake. Fish jump the barrier itself or go up the ladder near the intake.It is standard procedure, year around, for boats to rope around the left side. It is not advisable to row over the dam as it has a fairly powerful backwash........lives have been lost here in recent years.

Hope that helps.