Nelson Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Nelson Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Dakota. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 years old. Its primary use is other. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 66 ft (taller than 97.9% in ND) |
| Dam Length | 2,200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 20.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 10.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 660 acres |
| Drainage Area | 146 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1967 (59 years old) |
| NID ID | ND00096 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Minnkota Power Coop
Public Utility
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What is the hazard classification of Nelson Lake Dam?
Nelson Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Nelson Lake Dam?
Nelson Lake Dam is owned by Minnkota Power Coop (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Nelson Lake Dam built?
Nelson Lake Dam was completed in 1967, making it 59 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 Lake Dam?
Nelson Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Other, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Nelson Lake Dam?
Nelson Lake Dam has a dam height of 66 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 Nelson Lake Dam last inspected?
Nelson Lake Dam was last inspected on July 7, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.