Dvirnak Dam; Lorin Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Dvirnak Dam in Lorin, North Dakota, is a private earth dam completed in 1947 with a primary purpose of serving as a fish and wildlife pond.
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Summary
Designed by Jill Helmuth, this structure stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 79 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is regulated by NDSWC and undergoes regular state inspection, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality.
Located on Spring Creek, Dvirnak Dam spans 8.7 acres and has a drainage area of 0.23 square miles. The spillway, with a width of 130 feet, is uncontrolled, and the dam has undergone structural modifications in 1987 and 1998. Although the condition of the dam is currently not rated, it meets state jurisdiction requirements and has a history of state oversight, reflecting a commitment to maintaining its integrity for the benefit of fish and wildlife in the area.
With its stone core and soil foundation, Dvirnak Dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and environmental conservation. As a vital habitat for local wildlife, this structure serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in supporting biodiversity and ecological balance. Its history of careful regulation and maintenance underscores the critical role of dams in preserving natural resources and adapting to the challenges of climate change in the region.
Years Modified |
1987 - Structural, 1998 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1947 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
SPRING CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.7 |
Drainage Area |
0.23 |
Nid Storage |
79 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Dvirnak Dam; Lorin