Nelson Dam
Key Takeaway
Nelson Dam is classified as low hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1996 and is 30 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 39 ft (taller than 82.4% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 255 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 58 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 20 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1996 (30 years old) |
| NID ID | IA03200 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Ruth Nelson
Private
Nearby Dams
Grundman Dam
Cherokee, IA
Low Hazard 37 ftLundquist Dam
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Low Hazard 37 ftDessel Dam
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Low Hazard 35 ftMontgomery Dam
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Low Hazard 36 ftSmith Dam
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Low Hazard 42 ftLundquist Dam
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Low Hazard 32 ftThompson Dam
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Low Hazard 28 ftPierce Dam
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Low Hazard 36 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Nelson Dam?
Nelson Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Nelson Dam?
Nelson Dam is owned by Ruth Nelson (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Nelson Dam built?
Nelson Dam was completed in 1996, making it 30 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 Nelson Dam?
Nelson Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Nelson Dam?
Nelson Dam has a dam height of 39 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.