Nelson #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nelson #2 Lyle Nelson #7
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Nelson #1 is a private irrigation dam located in McCone, Montana, along Anderson Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 1960 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 20 feet in height and spans 1500 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 443 acre-feet for irrigation purposes. With a maximum discharge of 800 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow in the area.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Nelson #1 is classified as having a significant hazard potential, although its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated." Despite lacking specific inspection and emergency action plan details, this dam continues to serve its primary purpose effectively. With a prime location and a history of serving the local community for over six decades, Nelson #1 stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in Montana.
As a key structure in the region, Nelson #1 underscores the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term safety and functionality. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, this irrigation dam remains a vital asset for sustaining agricultural activities in the area. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the critical role that dams like Nelson #1 play in supporting sustainable water management practices and securing water access for future generations.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
1500 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
ANDERSON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
3.72 |
Nid Storage |
443 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nelson Creek Near Van Norman Mt
|
33cfs |
Milk River At Nashua Mt
|
233cfs |
Missouri River Near Wolf Point Mt
|
5020cfs |
Redwater River At Circle Mt
|
4cfs |
Milk River At Tampico Mt
|
123cfs |
Poplar River Near Poplar Mt
|
28cfs |
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