Thurman W. Dix Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Thurman W.


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Summary

Dix Reservoir, also known as Lords Mill, is a gravity dam located in Orange, Vermont, along the Orange Brook river. Completed in 1950, this reservoir serves as a crucial water supply for the region, with a storage capacity of 2280 acre-feet and a surface area of 119 acres. The dam stands at 50 feet in height and spans 920 feet in length, making it a significant structure for water management in the area.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, Thurman W. Dix Reservoir has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition. The dam is equipped with outlet gates for controlled water release, and it undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its age, the reservoir continues to play a key role in providing water for the community and maintaining the local water supply infrastructure.

With its historical significance and vital role in water resource management, Thurman W. Dix Reservoir stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water supply systems in the face of changing climate patterns. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize the efforts put into ensuring the resilience and safety of such essential structures to meet the needs of both current and future generations.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

920

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

ORANGE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

119

Hydraulic Height

50

Drainage Area

9.35

Nid Storage

2280

Structural Height

50

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

50
       
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.