Sunset Lake

SUNSET BROOK· Orange, Vermont· Built 1850· Masonry· 12 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Sunset Lake is classified as significant hazard in Vermont. It was completed in 1850 and is 176 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 12 ft (taller than 20.6% in VT)
Dam Length100 ft
Dam TypeMasonry
Max Storage180 acre-ft
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
Surface Area25 acres
Drainage Area4 sq mi
Year Completed1850 (176 years old)
NID IDVT00241

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: July 14, 2015
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEC

Ownership

JANE DOERFER

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Sunset Lake?

Sunset Lake is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Sunset Lake?

Sunset Lake is owned by JANE DOERFER (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Sunset Lake built?

Sunset Lake was completed in 1850, making it 176 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Sunset Lake?

Sunset Lake serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Sunset Lake?

Sunset Lake has a dam height of 12 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Sunset Lake last inspected?

Sunset Lake was last inspected on July 14, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.