Nelson Dam

Bedford, Virginia· Earth· 35 ft tall
Unknown Private

Key Takeaway

Nelson Dam is classified as unknown in Virginia.

Physical Details

Dam Height 35 ft (taller than 80% in VA)
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage56 acre-ft
Normal Storage30 acre-ft
Surface Area4 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
NID IDVA019070

Safety Information

Unknown

Hazard potential has not been determined.

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

Emergency Action Plan: No
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Ownership

Joseph L. & Linda B. Nelson

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Nelson Dam?

Nelson Dam is classified as Unknown. Hazard potential has not been determined. 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 Joseph L. & Linda B. Nelson (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

How tall is Nelson Dam?

Nelson Dam has a dam height of 35 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.

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.