Orange Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dietz Dam; Bob Gunderson Dam; Gunner
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Orange Dam, also known as Township Lake, is a local government-owned structure located in Adams County, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1935 by FERA, this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a structural height of 14 feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a storage capacity of 205 acre-feet and a drainage area of 6 square miles.
Situated on Plum Creek, Orange Dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement all handled by state authorities. Despite being deemed low hazard potential and not currently rated for condition assessment, the dam has an associated risk assessment of moderate (3). While it does not have an emergency action plan in place, the dam's risk management measures are yet to be determined.
With a relatively low hazard potential and a primary purpose of recreation, Orange Dam provides a vital water resource for the surrounding area. Although it may benefit from further risk management strategies and emergency preparedness, the dam's historical significance and contribution to the local community make it a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in North Dakota.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
PLUM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
6 |
Nid Storage |
205 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Orange Dam