Thorenson Dam; Dale Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Thorenson Dam in Dale, North Dakota, is a privately owned structure designed by Donald Indvik in 1992 for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Situated on Laporte Coulee in Bottineau County, this earth dam stands at a height of 8.8 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 485 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 342 acre-feet and a surface area of 135 acres, the dam serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area.

Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission, Thorenson Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet and two slide (sluice gate) outlet gates. Despite being rated as low hazard potential and not currently assessed for condition, the dam's risk assessment is moderate. With a drainage area of 69.2 square miles, the dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region.

Overall, Thorenson Dam in Dale is a vital piece of infrastructure that supports irrigation activities and water management in North Dakota. With its strategic location and design, the dam provides essential storage and regulation of water flow for agricultural and environmental purposes. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Thorenson Dam will become increasingly important for ensuring sustainable water access in the region.

Year Completed

1992

Dam Height

8.8

River Or Stream

LAPORTE COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

135

Drainage Area

69.2

Nid Storage

485

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

9
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.