Nelson Dam No.1
Key Takeaway
Nelson Dam No.1 is classified as low hazard in South Dakota. It was completed in 1974 and is 52 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 25 ft (taller than 57.4% in SD) |
| Dam Length | 360 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 80 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 10 acre-ft |
| Max Discharge | 500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1974 (52 years old) |
| NID ID | SD01954 |
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
NELSON
Private
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Low Hazard 31 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Nelson Dam No.1?
Nelson Dam No.1 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 No.1?
Nelson Dam No.1 is owned by NELSON (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Nelson Dam No.1 built?
Nelson Dam No.1 was completed in 1974, making it 52 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 No.1?
Nelson Dam No.1 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 No.1?
Nelson Dam No.1 has a dam height of 25 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.