Nelson #7 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nelson #6
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Nelson #7, also known as Big Pond, is a private fish and wildlife pond located in Sumter County, Alabama.
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Summary
Constructed in 1981 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a length of 620 feet. With a storage capacity of 242 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 94 acre-feet, this pond covers a surface area of 26 acres and has a drainage area of 0.27 square miles.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Nelson #7 has a moderate risk rating. The spillway, which is uncontrolled and 100 feet wide, has a maximum discharge capacity of 500 cubic feet per second. Although the dam has not been inspected since 1984, its condition is currently listed as "Not Rated."
Located in the Congressional District 07 of Alabama, Nelson #7 serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and supporting fish and wildlife. While it is not regulated or permitted by the state, this pond provides essential habitat for local species and contributes to the conservation efforts in the area. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Nelson #7 to be a fascinating example of private infrastructure supporting environmental sustainability.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
620 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
FACTORY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
26 |
Drainage Area |
0.27 |
Nid Storage |
242 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Nelson #1