Nelson Corral Dam (Blm) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nelson Corral Dam, managed by the Bureau of Land Management, is a vital structure located in Lassen, California, along Dry Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1980, this Federal-owned dam serves as a key water resource, with a storage capacity of 1,973 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 1,533 acre-feet. The dam stands at 12 feet high and spans 340 feet in length, encompassing a surface area of 220 acres within a drainage area of 10 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential, Nelson Corral Dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, but it undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With its primary purpose listed as 'Other', the dam contributes to various water-related activities and environmental initiatives, highlighting the importance of responsible water resource management in mitigating climate impacts and ensuring sustainable water use for future generations.

As a significant Federal water infrastructure, Nelson Corral Dam underscores the role of the Bureau of Land Management in overseeing the design, construction, and regulation of water resources. With its strategic location and capacity to store water, the dam represents a critical asset in addressing water supply needs and supporting ecological balance in the area. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the complexities involved in managing and maintaining structures like Nelson Corral Dam to safeguard water security and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

DRY CREEK

Surface Area

220

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

1973

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.