Lower Orange Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Lower Orange Reservoir, also known as Large Orange, is a vital water supply reservoir located in Orange, Vermont.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Owned and regulated by the local government, this reservoir has a dam height of 33 feet and was completed in 1910. With a storage capacity of 168 acre-feet, it serves the primary purpose of water supply for the region, drawing water from the Orange Brook.

This earth dam structure, with a stone core and soil foundation, covers a surface area of 9 acres and has a drainage area of 10.94 square miles. Despite its age, Lower Orange Reservoir is deemed to have low hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in June 2014. The reservoir plays a crucial role in the water management system of the area, ensuring a reliable water supply for the community while adhering to state regulations for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lower Orange Reservoir stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices in Vermont. With its historical significance dating back over a century, this reservoir continues to provide essential water supply services while maintaining a fair condition and low hazard potential. As climate change impacts water resources globally, the careful monitoring and regulation of reservoirs like Lower Orange are crucial in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of water systems in the face of environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

385

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

ORANGE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

33

Drainage Area

10.94

Nid Storage

168

Structural Height

33

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

33
       
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.