The painting portrays a hydroelectric dam, a significant feat of mid-20th-century engineering, set within a natural landscape. The dam itself is depicted with architectural accuracy, its cascading spillway channeling water from the reservoir above. In the foreground, the river runs downstream, flanked by autumnal trees whose foliage is rendered in warm, earthy tones that contrast with the cool blues and grays of the water and dam structure.

Atkins’ use of watercolor gives the scene a fluidity and softness, with the colors blending into each other, reflecting the interplay of man-made structures with the natural environment. The dam's solidity contrasts with the transient beauty of the surrounding landscape, and small figures can be seen in the lower part of the composition, providing a sense of scale and human presence.

The artwork is a visual study of the balance between human industry and nature, showcasing Atkins' ability to capture the essence of Canadian landscapes and infrastructure with sensitivity and detail.