Sorenson Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Sorenson Pond, located in McKenzie County, North Dakota, is a privately owned water supply reservoir with a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet.


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Summary

The dam at Sorenson Pond stands at a height of 24 feet, providing significant hazard potential. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, it is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its safety and compliance.

Designed by JMAC Resources Inc, Sorenson Pond serves as a vital water source for the surrounding area. With a surface area of 4.2 acres, the pond plays a crucial role in meeting water supply needs. Although the dam's construction year and specific design details are not provided, its primary purpose is clear: water supply. Despite not having a designated spillway type or outlet gates listed, the pond's location within the St. Paul District indicates its importance in the region's water resource management.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Sorenson Pond to be an intriguing case study in dam safety and water supply management. With its significant hazard potential and state-regulated status, the pond underscores the importance of regular inspections, enforcement, and emergency preparedness for maintaining the integrity of critical water infrastructure. As a privately owned facility, Sorenson Pond highlights the diverse ownership and regulatory landscape of water resources in North Dakota, serving as a reminder of the complex interplay between water supply, dam safety, and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Height

24

Surface Area

4.2

Nid Storage

70

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.